Hyperhidrosis

What is hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis is a medical term for excessive sweating, which can cause daily disruptions like embarrassment or soaked clothing. Often occurring without an apparent trigger, hyperhidrosis can amplify social anxiety and lead to frequent skin infections because of the constant moisture. 

Generally, sweating is good for you – It cools you down and regulates your body temperature. However, with hyperhidrosis, you produce more sweat than is necessary for this purpose. You might develop hyperhidrosis from specific sweaty areas such as your:

• Underarms
• Soles of your feet
• Palms of your hands
• Face

You should contact Skin Care Specialists for a hyperhidrosis evaluation and treatment consultation if you experience heavy sweating at least once a week during waking hours or if you experience night sweats for no apparent reason. Treatment can reduce your sweating and help you overcome any emotional distress or anxiety associated with your hyperhidrosis. 

What causes hyperhidrosis?

There are two categories of hyperhidrosis: Primary hyperhidrosis and secondary hyperhidrosis. If you have primary hyperhidrosis, your excessive sweating comes from faulty nerve signals communicating with your sweat glands. This type of hyperhidrosis is genetic, which means you’re more likely to get it if you have family members with it. 

Secondary hyperhidrosis can be linked to underlying medical conditions or medications. You might sweat excessively because of:

• Antidepressants
• Pain relievers
• Hormone medications
• Menopause
• Nervous system disorders
• Infections
• Diabetes or diabetes medications
• Certain types of cancer
• Thyroid problems

Skin Care Specialists explores possible causes of your hyperhidrosis by reviewing your medical history and conducting a physical exam. They can treat primary and secondary cases. 

What are the treatments for hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis is fortunately manageable with professional dermatological treatment. Many people can manage their excessive sweating without surgery. Your options for treatment include:

Prescription-strength antiperspirants

Strong antiperspirants containing aluminum chloride may reduce sweating when applied daily under your armpits or in other areas with overactive sweat glands. 

Botox® injections

Known for treating wrinkles, Botox is also an effective treatment for hyperhidrosis. Botox injections temporarily deactivate the nerves that stimulate your sweat glands. 

Medications

Several prescription oral medications, including anticholinergics and some antidepressants, can reduce sweating all over your body. 

Surgery 

For severe cases of hyperhidrosis, dermatologists may recommend surgery to remove or alter overactive sweat glands. 

To explore treatments for your hyperhidrosis, call Skin Care Specialists or book a dermatology consultation online today.