Severe or excessive sweating is known as hyperhidrosis. This condition can leave affected areas constantly damp or wet, and can be a source of huge embarrassment to the sufferer. Many patients suffer in silence not knowing that effective treatments are available.
Hyperhidrosis is usually localized to areas with high concentration of sweat glands, commonly the armpits, palms, and soles. Sometimes, it may be generalized, affecting most of the body.
For most people, there may be a family history or they may have suffered from hyperhidrosis since childhood or adolesence. Rarely, it may be due to other underlying medical problems and will require further investigations.
TREATMENT & CARE FOR HYPERHIDROSIS
- Topical treatments - anti-perspirants containing aluminium salts can be applied overnight.
- Iontophoresis - Useful for hyperhidrosis of the palms and soles. Regular biweekly treatment using electric currents can help keep patients dry with minimal side effects.
- Oral treatment - prescribed oral medications can help reduce sweating from all parts of the body. This should be taken with medical supervision.
- Botox - little injections of Botox can be placed in the armpit areas for very effective control of underarm sweating. This is quick, effective and can often last for up to 6 months. Numbing cream is applied prior to these injections to make the procedure comfortable and tolerable.