Understanding Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)
What is Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis is a condition characterized by excessive sweating that occurs without the usual triggers of heat or exertion. While perspiration is a natural mechanism for regulating body temperature, hyperhidrosis involves an overproduction of sweat that can impact daily life and social interactions.
Commonly Affected Areas
- Palms
- Soles of the feet
- Groin area
- Underarms
- Palms
- Soles of the feet
- Groin area
- Underarms
In addition to the inconvenience of frequent clothing changes, hyperhidrosis can significantly affect one’s social and professional interactions, leading to potential embarrassment or discomfort.
Causes of Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis can be categorized into two types:
Primary Hyperhidrosis
This form is often hereditary and occurs without an identifiable underlying condition.
Secondary Hyperhidrosis
This type is associated with other medical conditions or factors, such as:
- Diabetes
- Gout
- Menopause
- Allergic reactions to medications
- Cancer
- Stressful situations
Secondary hyperhidrosis can be linked to changes in the pituitary gland or thyroid, as well as other conditions affecting sweat production.
Symptoms Include
- Excessive sweating in situations where it is not typically expected
- Night sweats unrelated to illness or external factors
Risk Factors for Secondary Hyperhidrosis
- Allergic reactions to certain medications
- Menopause
- Low blood sugar
- Overactive thyroid gland
- Some cancers
- History of heart attack
Treatment Options for Hyperhidrosis
Effective treatments for hyperhidrosis are available and may include:
- Prescription-strength antiperspirants
- Oral medications
- Botox® injections
- Iontophoresis (electrical current therapy)
- miraDry® (electromagnetic therapy)
- Surgical interventions, such as sweat gland or nerve surgery
Specialized Treatments
Botox®
FDA-approved for treating excessive sweating, Botox® temporarily blocks nerve signals that stimulate sweat glands, with effects lasting approximately six to seven months.
Liposuction of the Axilla
This procedure offers a permanent reduction in sweating by removing sweat glands from the underarm area. Typically performed under local anesthesia, it results in a 60-70% reduction in underarm sweating with minimal downtime.
miraDry®
A non-invasive treatment that provides a long-lasting solution by eliminating sweat and odor-producing glands in the underarms without the need for surgery or toxins.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you are experiencing excessive sweating and wish to explore treatment options, we invite you to request a consultation with one of our skin specialists. Please note that treatment availability may vary by location.
If you are experiencing excessive sweating and wish to explore treatment options, we invite you to request a consultation with one of our skin specialists. Please note that treatment availability may vary by location.
Age Restrictions
Patients under 18 years of age (19 in Alabama) must have parental or legal guardian consent and accompaniment for initial and potentially some follow-up visits. For further assistance and to confirm treatment options available at your preferred location, please contact us today.