In this article we will talk about inflammation of the skin caused by the irritating effect of sweat on the skin. Sweat dermatitis is more common in the warm season, when a person sweats profusely. Sweating is one of the physiological mechanisms used by our body to balance the loss and gain of heat. In other words, increased sweating serves to control and regulate body temperature.
Sweating usually appears as a background activity that is rarely noticeable. Several factors can affect the amount of sweat produced, including intense exercise, high ambient temperature, fever, and stress.
Excessive sweating can be a side effect of certain medications and alcohol abuse, as well as a symptom of diseases (such as hyperthyroidism and diabetes) and other non-pathological conditions (such as menopause, premenstrual period, and pregnancy).
What are the reasons? The typical symptoms of sweat dermatitis are based on skin hyperactivity , which depends on the excessive release of acetylcholine. In areas of the body where you sweat the most, it causes bouts of itching. Elevated body temperature, hot-humid climate and intense sweating during sports are the main factors predisposing to the development of sweat dermatitis. The latter is also more common in people with very sensitive and reactive skin, such as children and people with atopic dermatitis. However, there are other predisposing factors that can contribute to inflammation : hot bath/shower or sauna; occlusive dressings; stress.
How is it manifested?
Sweat dermatitis is a phenomenon of variable intensity. The rash characteristic of sweat dermatitis is preceded by a series of prodromal symptoms. These include: intense itching; burning or tingling; feeling of warmth; reddish spots (similar to those that appear with sunburn). Numerous blisters may also appear, rising above the surface of the skin. Sometimes they merge with each other, forming a more or less extensive edema. In the most severe forms, vesicles (1-4 mm) appear, surrounded by a reddish halo.
Less commonly, patients experience systemic symptoms such as headache, increased salivation, palpitations, fainting, shortness of breath, abdominal cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Sweat dermatitis can occur anywhere on the body. However, in most cases, the rash affects areas rich in sweat glands: armpits, cavities of the arms and knees, chest, lumbar region of the back, abdomen, groin, under the breast, even the scalp is not excluded.
The diagnosis of sweat dermatitis is made by a dermatologist based on the history and physical examination. Only in difficult cases, the doctor can proceed to other diagnostic tests. Other conditions that can mimic sweat dermatitis include allergic reactions, eczema, and bacterial and fungal infections. Therefore, if you have any doubts about the nature of inflammation , it makes sense to consult a dermatologist at Bogolyuby Medical Center .
How to help? Symptoms of sweat dermatitis usually disappear spontaneously without the use of specific treatments. With regard to pharmacological therapy, the dermatologist may prescribe, if deemed appropriate, the use of cortisone-based creams or antihistamines.
To prevent an episode, situations that provoke an inflammatory process should be avoided whenever possible. Pay attention to proper hydration by drinking at least two liters of water a day. Eat a balanced and healthy diet, avoiding all those foods that exacerbate the inflammatory process, such as spicy and fatty foods, sausages, fried and spicy foods. For the same reason, it is important not to abuse alcoholic beverages.
