Everyone deals with sweat from time to time. Sweating is the body’s natural response to regulating body temperature due to warm temperatures, exercise or even emotions like fear, anger or embarrassment.
But, for some, sweating happens excessively and without the above triggers. Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition that causes a person to sweat unpredictably. This uncontrollable sweating may cause both physical and emotional discomfort.
The cause of hyperhidrosis is unknown.
When it is associated with another condition, such as anxiety or menopause, it is called secondary hyperhidrosis. Once the underlying cause is treated, the hyperhidrosis typically ends. When it is not caused by another condition, it is termed primary hyperhidrosis, which appears to run in families.
Hyperhidrosis is often diagnosed through a simple discussion with a doctor, who will ask the patient when, how much and where they typically sweat, and if the patient has noticed any specific triggers.
There are a number of ways to treat hyperhidrosis, depending on the type and severity of the individual’s situation. Non-surgical methods are used first.
Treatments include:
- Antiperspirants: Antiperspirants plug sweat ducts. They may cause skin or clothing irritation, if they aren’t used carefully. Deodorants, although helpful in controlling body odor, are different from antiperspirants because they don’t reduce sweating.
- Medication: Sedatives may be used if the patient has stress-induced hyperhidrosis. Anticholinergic drugs, which help prevent sweat gland stimulation, are common for other kinds of hyperhidrosis.
- Botox: Botulinum toxin, or botox, injections may ease symptoms in some patients with motility disorders.
- Surgery: Surgery is an option for patients for whom other treatments have been unsuccessful. The surgery addresses the nerves responsible for overactive sweat gland by locating and then removing them, using a camera for guidance.
If you are concerned about your sweating habits, Windsor Dermatology offers in person and telehealth visit options. Call today to schedule your consultation.
