There are certain types of medical problems which can make people feel self-conscious around others and even stop them from participating in social activities that they would normally enjoy. Here is a brief guide to the treatments available for some of the most common, embarrassing health conditions.

Plantar hyperhidrosis

Plantar hyperhidrosis is a term that medical professionals use to describe acute foot perspiration. The excess moisture resulting from this condition can not only make walking and running more uncomfortable for the sufferer but can also cause their feet to develop a very pungent odour.

Additionally, the warm, damp environment created by excess foot perspiration can increase a person's chances of developing athlete's foot, which in turn can lead to their toenails becoming discoloured and flaky and the skin on their feet cracking and peeling. All of this can result in the sufferer feeling very self-conscious about both the smell and the appearance of their feet.

Topical, self-administered treatments have found to be helpful for mild cases of plantar hyperhidrosis; applying a strong antiperspirant to the feet can reduce the amount of moisture they produce, whilst anti-fungal powders can absorb sweat, eliminate odour and prevent the development of athlete's foot.

For those who find at-home sweaty feet treatment methods to be ineffective, there are a number of other options which they can try, one of which is Botox. This involves the injection of a small amount of Botulinium toxin into the feet, in order to block the release of nerve signals that lead to the eccrine glands producing sweat. The effects of this treatment are temporary; in most cases, they will last for no more than six months.

Adult Acne

Acne is a skin condition which is very common amongst teenagers. However, in most instances, this issue resolves itself by the time a person reaches adulthood. Unfortunately, there are people who continue to suffer from this medical issue long after they have emerged from adolescence. This can have a significant impact on their quality of life, making them feel insecure and uncomfortable about their appearance.

Acne in adults can be caused by hormonal imbalances (such as those that women experience during menopause and pregnancy), as well as by chronic stress, comedogenic (pore-blocking) products and certain types of medication.

To treat this problem, the sufferer must first identify its cause. If for example, they are under constant stress, they may need to introduce some stress management activities into their daily routines, such as meditation and regular exercise. If certain cosmetic products are thought to be at the root of the problem, they may need to replace their current skincare and make-up items with ones which are non-comedogenic.

In cases where the underlying cause cannot be determined or resolved, doctors sometimes recommend that their patients take oral antibiotics, or use strong topical treatments, such as retinoids and benzoyl peroxide.