Sweating more than usual or excessive sweating on the palms, feet, underarms, face, scalp, and groin area is referred to as hyperhidrosis. Perspiring serves as a form of temperature control for the body. People suffering from this condition often sweat profusely so that it soaks through clothes or drips off their hands.
Contrary to popular belief, individuals with hyperhidrosis do not have more sweat glands than others. Instead, the sympathetic nerve that controls sweating is hypersensitive and causes uncontrolled sweating. Heavy sweating can ruin your day. To sufferers, the disorder leads to social anxiety and embarrassment. If clinical-strength antiperspirants have failed, you may need to consider the different interventions highlighted in this article.
What Causes Hyperhidrosis?
Excessive sweating associated with hyperhidrosis is classified into two:
- Focal hyperhidrosis: When sweating is localised. For example, sweating of the palms and soles is due to a condition called palmoplantar hyperhidrosis.
- Generalised hyperhidrosis: Excessive sweating affecting the entire body.
Hyperhidrosis can be present at birth or develop later in life, but most cases begin during a person’s adolescence. When extreme sweating has no known cause, the condition is known as primary idiopathic hyperhidrosis, in which the sweating is localised. No specific medical cause is known for primary hyperhidrosis, though it can run in families.
Underlying health conditions, such as menopause, a tumour, gout, mercury poisoning, diabetes mellitus, obesity, or hyperthyroidism, can also bring on extreme perspiration. This is known as secondary hyperhidrosis. Symptoms may include:
- Clammy or wet palms and soles
- Body odour caused by too much sweating
- Sweating that noticeably soaks through clothing
- Inflammatory skin conditions, like fungal or bacterial infections
Hyperhidrosis sufferers are also self-conscious and socially withdrawn, which can lead to anxiety or depression. In addition, they choose careers that do not require physical contact or human interaction. Most spend their time dealing with sweat; for instance changing clothes, showering, using underarm pads, and wearing bulky garments that don’t reveal sweat patches.
For some, hyperhidrosis symptoms are too extreme that it interferes with their careers, personal relationships, leisure activities, and self-image. Sweating that hinders everyday activities and occurs at least once a week for no apparent reason can also harm someone’s emotional well-being. Fortunately, dermatologists can assist patients by controlling excessive sweating. Before starting treatment, it’s crucial to determine why a patient has hyperhidrosis.
Who Is Affected By Hyperhidrosis?
Two cases of extreme sweating exist. Primary hyperhidrosis develops during childhood and worsens in puberty, particularly in women. It is usually inherited, which means that if one of your relatives has the condition, you may be susceptible to developing it.
Patients with neurological syndromes, gout, diabetes, menopause, chronic alcoholism, sweat-causing medicines, and spinal cord injury may develop secondary hyperhidrosis. Anxiety, pregnancy, heart disease, Parkinson’s disease, respiratory failure, and infections like HIV, malaria, or tuberculosis may also cause this disorder. Some cancer types, like Hodgkin’s disease, are also known to result in excessive night sweats.
What are the Treatments for Hyperhidrosis?
Dermatologists diagnose hyperhidrosis by performing a starch iodine test or using a vapometer device to measure water loss and sweat production in the hands, underarms, feet, and scalp. Other medical examinations may be necessary to rule out any underlying medical condition. Treatment is determined by the type of hyperhidrosis and the location of perspiration on the body.
Lifestyle changes, such as using antiperspirants and wearing breathable clothing made of natural fibre, may be sufficient to control sweating. However, a more aggressive approach might be required in severe cases. Your dermatologist will consider your overall health and other factors before employing one or a combination of the following hyperhidrosis interventions:
- Extra-Strength Over-The-Counter Prescription Antiperspirants
Most people use them because they are not invasive or expensive, and some are effective at temporarily plugging sweat ducts. When applied to the underarms at night, antiperspirants can help prevent sweating. That said, when misused, some high-strength antiperspirants can cause skin irritation. Consult your dermatologist to learn how you can reduce any side effects.
- Anticholinergic Drugs
If prescription antiperspirants are ineffective, anticholinergic drugs may help inhibit the transmission of parasympathetic nerve impulses. Generally, patients notice an improvement in their symptoms within two weeks. These systemic therapies work by causing a drying reaction in the body. They are, therefore, ideal for patients who sweat in multiple places, though side effects like a dry mouth and eyes may occur.
- Iontophoresis
In case you suffer from excessive sweating in your hands, feet, or both, you can use the “No-Sweat machine” treatment at home. You must immerse your hands or feet in a shallow pan of water. The medical device sends a low-voltage current through the water, temporarily shutting down sweat glands. Most people require 6 to 10 treatments lasting 20 to 40 minutes, twice or thrice weekly, to find relief. Inform your dermatologist if you develop dry skin, irritated skin, or discomfort during treatment.
- Botulinum Toxin Injection or Botox Injections
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Botox for underarms. The neurotoxic protein is injected just below the skin’s surface in various underarm spots to treat excessive sweating. When performed correctly, patients experience little to no pain or discomfort. Post-menopausal women who sweat excessively on their heads may benefit from this treatment.
In some cases, Botox for sweating may be used in the hands and feet to temporarily block a chemical (acetylcholine) in the body that stimulates sweat production. Patients with hyperhidrosis may require several injections for effective results, which will be visible four to five days after treatment. Excessive sweating decreases for four to six months, sometimes longer.
- Surgery
This is usually the last resort for treating hyperhidrosis when all other treatments have failed. Endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy and microwave therapy are all permanent procedures that involve cutting or destroying the sympathetic nerve that controls sweating.
Conclusion
Anyone experiencing hyperhidrosis should not suffer in silence because numerous treatment options are available, including Botox for hyperhidrosis, to help you deal with this unique condition. If you’re struggling physically and emotionally due to hyperhidrosis, seek treatment to avoid complications such as fungal or bacterial infections of the skin and nails. Buy Botox at Refine Group, which can be used for various cosmetic and medical uses, including treating hyperhidrosis.
