Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)

Hyperhidrosis is a condition that causes excessive sweating. Sweating is the body’s natural way to cool down and maintain a steady, healthy temperature, and sweating in hot environments, during or after physical activity, or even as a result of a stress-related reaction is not uncommon. But when perspiration is excessive and chronic, it can be embarrassing and disruptive, interfering with normal activities and socialization. In hyperhidrosis, excessive perspiration is produced even when temperatures are cool, and usually occurs in the armpits, hands, and feet without any apparent trigger. Hyperhidrosis can cause clothing to become soaked with perspiration, and it can also cause physical discomfort and emotional anxiety and stress.

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If you or your dermatologist suspects that an underlying health condition is causing the excessive sweating, you may need to have other diagnostic testing done before the hyperhidrosis can be effectively treated. The course of treatment for secondary hyperhidrosis is based on treating the underlying condition that is causing you to sweat more than usual.

Rid Your Burden

Hyperhidrosis is not usually a serious or dangerous medical condition. However, it is frequently a serious burden in a person’s life, which often goes unresolved for years or even a lifetime. Many who suffer from excessive sweating are unaware that they may be suffering from a medical condition that has treatment options.
Often, patients are too embarrassed or don’t believe that excessive sweating can be cured through a doctor, so they do not report the problem when visiting for routine checkups.
Faq

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.

What causes hyperhidrosis?

A.

Sometimes, hyperhidrosis can be caused by an underlying medical condition like:

menopause
anxiety disorders
heart disease
diabetes
spinal cord injury
cancer
stroke

Hyperhidrosis can also be caused by certain medications. When hyperhidrosis occurs as a result of an underlying condition or medication, it’s called secondary hyperhidrosis. Primary hyperhidrosis is not related to another medical condition, and it can occur even without an identifiable trigger when the nerves that stimulate sweat gland production are overactive. About 3 percent of the U.S. population suffers from primary hyperhidrosis, and people with a family history of hyperhidrosis are more likely to develop the condition themselves.

Q.

What is the best treatment for excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)?

A.

Depending on the type of hyperhidrosis you are suffering from (primary hyperhidrosis or secondary hyperhidrosis) as well as other factors, your dermatologist might recommend any of the below appropriate treatments used for excessive sweating conditions:
Prescription antiperspirants
Prescription medications 
Prescription topical creams for excessive sweating
Botox injections for sweating
Antidepressants to reduce sweating

Q.

How is hyperhidrosis treated?

A.

In people with secondary hyperhidrosis, the first step in treatment is to address the underlying medical condition to determine if a change in treatment results in a decrease in sweat production. When these steps are ineffective or in people with primary hyperhidrosis, treatment options include:

prescription antiperspirants for underarm sweating

medication designed to target sweat glands and slow production of perspiration

iontophoresis which uses an electronic pulse to deactivate glands

BOTOX® injections to block the nerve signals that trigger sweat production so glands aren’t stimulated

Patients with hyperhidrosis require ongoing treatment customized for their specific needs to manage symptoms and keep sweating under control.

Q.

What Kind Of Results Can I Expect From Hyperhidrosis Treatment?

A.

Botox® takes effect within a few days of treatment, reducing the amount of sweating in the treated areas. Within a week, patients should notice the full results of treatment, with a significant reduction in sweating that lasts for approximately six months. With topical treatments, patients will gradually notice an improvement in their symptoms that can be maintained with regular use of the product.

Q.

Can Hyperhidrosis Be Caused By Anxiety?

A.

Hyperhidrosis, also known as excessive sweating–is not simply the result of anxiety. Most people have a natural bodily response to sweat when they are experiencing hot temperatures or stress. But those who suffer from hyperhidrosis experience sweating that goes far beyond this type of normal sweating response. However, hyperhidrosis might be triggered or worsened by high anxiety or stress.

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If you are looking for an experienced team of dermatologists, please contact Bayou City Dermatology today.

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