Clammy, moist skin is a common symptom of hyperhidrosis, a condition in which the body sweats excessively. In addition to the general discomfort and embarrassment of hyperhidrosis, there are also more serious effects to consider. Persistent, excessive moisture on your skin can lead to bacterial and fungal infections, and can also stain your clothes. Your clothes and immediate surroundings may also develop mold or mildew as a result of your skin condition.
Social Effects
If your skin is unpleasant to touch, you may experience a significant social barrier because of your condition. For instance, sweaty palms can cause social embarrassment during the crucial first few seconds when you meet a new person. If your palms sweat while you shake hands, others may judge you unfairly based on the moist feel of your hands. If your feet sweat profusely, your shoes may become highly-fertile breeding grounds for fungus and bacteria that can emanate offensive odors.
Hygiene Issues
According to QuickCare.org, the hot and moist conditions in your shoes promote the development of athlete's foot. This fungus spreads from between the toes to the soles of the foot, and causes painful itching and burning if not treated. These conditions elsewhere on the body can contribute to skin health issues such as jock itch, yeast infection and ringworm, which can both harm your skin and create embarrassing social situations.
Effects on Clothing
In warm enough conditions, your clothes absorb moisture from your skin and become stained or promote the growth of mildew. Mildew can cause unpleasant, lingering odors and can spread from your clothes to the surrounding areas when warm, damp conditions exist. The Boston Environmental website notes that there are several secondary concerns with mildew. It can cause allergic reactions, or irritate your eyes, nose and upper respiratory passages. The right conditions for mildew in your clothes may also promote the growth of other molds and fungi. Depending on their type, these other irritants may produce toxins that affect your skin, respiratory or nervous system. They may also cause additional infections, especially if your immune system is weakened by another condition.
