Hyperhidrosis

This is a medical condition that causes excessive sweating. The word “hyperhidrosis” means too much (hyper) sweating (hidrosis).

Excessive sweating happens when a person sweats more than is necessary. Sweating cools the body, which prevents us from overheating. People who have hyperhidrosis, however, sweat when the body does not need cooling.

Many people who have hyperhidrosis sweat from one or two areas of the body. Most often, they sweat from their palms, feet, underarms, or head. While the rest of the body remains dry, one or two areas may drip with sweat.

This excessive sweating can interfere with everyday activities. Hands can be so sweaty that it becomes difficult to turn a doorknob or use a computer. Sweat from the underarms often soaks through clothes. Because the skin is often wet, skin infections can develop.

Various medical treatments can be used including aluminum chloride and iontophoresis. Botox can also be used to treat hyperhidrosis.

Botox: Your dermatologist can inject a weak form of this medicine into the hyperhidrotic areas. To treat excessive sweating, a patient will need to have very tiny amounts injected in many areas of the skin. When performed properly, patients have little pain or discomfort.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved this treatment for the underarms. Findings from some research studies suggest that this treatment may be effective for other areas of the body, including the hands and feet.

How it works: The injections temporarily block a chemical in the body that stimulates the sweat glands. Most patients notice results 4 to 5 days after receiving treatment.

Reduced sweating lasts about 4 to 6 months — and sometimes longer. When the excessive sweating returns, you can be retreated.