Hyperhidrosis is a condition that causes excessive sweating primarily of the hands, armpits, feet, face, and genital area, but can affect the entire body.
Because of the consistent presence of sweat and moisture on the skin, individuals with hyperhidrosis commonly experience wrinkled, red, irritated skin. However, this condition also often causes people to feel self-conscious or anxious in social settings, which creates additional challenges beyond the physical symptoms.
What Causes Hyperhidrosis?
In general, there is no known cause for Hyperhidrosis; however, it can be brought on as a side effect of certain medications, or as a result of an underlying condition, such as:
Heart Disease
Diabetes
Anxiety
Gout
Hyperglycemia
Hormone Changes
When there is no understood cause behind a patient’s hyperhidrosis, it is called Focal Hyperhidrosis or Primary Hyperhidrosis. Doctors believe hyperhidrosis is caused when nerves overreact, which leads to excessive sweating in areas where perspiration is more common, such as the hands and underarms. However, individuals can experience hyperhidrosis from sweat glands all over the body.
Hyperhidrosis Treatment
At Optima Dermatology, we’re experienced with hyperhidrosis and treatment options. Treatments vary depending on the severity of a patient’s condition,and can include prescription antiperspirant, or medication to control the activity of the sweat glands.
Botox® injections have also been shown to be highly effective at treating hyperhidrosis in the armpits by blocking the nerves that cause sweating. Patients that receive Botox® injections typically experience relief for up to six months.
In some more serious cases, surgery may be required to remove the nerves under the skin that control sweat glands. Due to its invasive nature, surgery is not recommended unless absolutely necessary. Further, surgery for hyperhidrosis can actually lead to undesired symptoms later in life such as more intense sweating. Book your appointment now at Optima Dermatology to take control of your excessive sweating.
