Hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating can be an embarrassing and uncomfortable condition. However, thanks to medical advances, today there are effective solutions to treat it. In the following we will give you an overview of hyperhidrosis, from identifying its underlying causes to the most effective treatment methods available today. Discover how you can combat excessive sweating so you can enjoy an active and carefree life again!
What is hyperhidrosis and why does it occur?
Hyperhidrosis is a condition that causes excessive sweating. Although sweating is a natural process in which the body regulates its temperature and eliminates toxins, in hyperhidrosis, it occurs in large amounts without a specific trigger such as physical exertion or stress. This can have a significant impact on quality of life, affecting social life, work and interpersonal relationships.
Symptoms of hyperhidrosis include:
- excessive sweating, even at low temperatures or at rest;
- persistent moisture in the armpitswhich can stain clothes;
- social discomfort and low self-confidence from visible sweating and unpleasant odors;
- skin irritation from rubbing against wet clothes [1].
Hyperhidrosis can affect different areas of the body, but most commonly occurs in the armpits. However, excessive sweating can also occur on the palms and soles (palmoplantar hyperhidrosis) or the face (facial hyperhidrosis). In generalized hyperhidrosis, excessive sweating affects the whole body. The causes of hyperhidrosis can be diverse, but the most common include:
- genetic factors - genetic predisposition plays an important role in the development of hyperhidrosis;
- hormonal changes - Puberty, menopause or pregnancy can trigger or worsen hyperhidrosis;
- certain medical conditions - excessive sweating can be a symptom of medical conditions such as hyperthyroidism, diabetes or anxiety;
- taking medicines - some substances used for therapeutic purposes, such as painkillers, can have the side effect of excessive sweating;
- psychological factors - Stress, anxiety and strong emotions can trigger excessive sweating episodes [1][2].
Treatment options for hyperhidrosis
There are several options for treating excessive sweating, and often the right method should be chosen according to the severity of the symptoms and tailored to the needs of the individual patient. Therefore, if you are experiencing this problem, it is advisable to seek help from a medical specialist for diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan. Here are some of your options:
Non-invasive treatment
In many cases, drug treatment is an effective option for controlling axillary hyperhidrosis. It may include:
- antiperspirant - is often the first treatment option for hyperhidrosis. They contain chemicals that reduce sweating by blocking sweat glands. The formulas can be applied to the armpits, palms, soles or face, depending on the affected area. However, for some people, commercial antiperspirants may not be effective enough. In these cases, special antiperspirants containing higher concentrations of aluminum chloride are recommended;
- medically - to treat hyperhidrosis, anticholinergics or beta-blockers may be used only under a doctor's advice. Anticholinergics block nerve signals that stimulate the sweat glands, reducing sweat production. Beta-blockers and some sedatives can be used to control sweating of the palms or other areas caused by anxiety or stress. However, these drugs can have side effects, such as dry mouth, and are not suitable for all patients [2];
- botulinum toxin - a modern and effective treatment option, Dysport, made from botulinum toxin type A, works by blocking the nerve signals that trigger sweat glands. Botulinum toxin treatment for sweating is often used for axillary hyperhidrosis, but can also be applied for palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis. Injection is done with a very fine needle, does not take long and does not require anesthesia. Results appear 2-4 days after treatment, but the maximum effect is felt after 2 weeks. The effects last 4 to 12 months, depending on the body. After this period, treatment must be repeated to maintain its effectiveness [3].
Surgeries
In severe cases of axillary hyperhidrosis that do not respond to other treatment methods, such as medications or botulinum toxin therapy, the doctor may recommend surgery. Options include:
- excision of sweat glands - In this procedure, the apocrine sweat glands in the armpit area are removed. The procedure can be performed using various techniques, such as traditional excision or curettage and suction;
- sympathectomy - is a more invasive procedure that involves cutting the sympathetic nerves that stimulate the sweat glands.
It is important to note, however, that any type of surgery involves risks and complications [2].
Other treatment options for excessive sweating
In addition to the drug treatments and surgery described above, there are other ways to combat axillary hyperhidrosis:
- iontoforeza - is a non-invasive procedure that uses a small electric current to temporarily reduce sweat production. The method is painless and can be performed at home with portable machines. Iontophoresis is useful for axillary hyperhidrosis, but may cause mild discomfort, such as tingling or burning, and requires frequent use to maintain its effects;
- microwave therapy - uses high-frequency electromagnetic waves to heat the sweat glands, permanently destroying them. Microwave therapy offers permanent results and is a relatively quick and painless procedure that is effective for axillary hyperhidrosis. Disadvantages include temporary discomfort and the potential need for multiple treatment sessions. The long-term effects of this intervention are not very well known [2].
How do you know which hyperhidrosis treatment option is right for you?
Choosing the best way to combat hyperhidrosis depends on a number of factors, such as the severity of the condition, personal preferences, your general health and lifestyle. For starters, schedule a consultation with one of the Cronos Med specialists to discuss your case in detail. One of our doctors will carefully examine you, assess the severity of your hyperhidrosis and discuss with you the symptoms that are bothering you. It may be necessary for the doctor to perform specific tests to rule out other medical conditions that could be causing the excessive sweating.
After a thorough assessment, our specialist will help you understand the pros and cons of the recommended treatment, taking into account factors such as effectiveness, duration of effects, potential side effects, cost and impact on your lifestyle. This will help you make an informed decision!
Hyperhidrosis is not a serious condition, but its effects can make you feel uncomfortable. To help you regain your comfort and self-confidence, Cronos Med is at your disposal with a team of professionals ready to offer modern and effective treatment solutions. Come to one of our clinics for a proper diagnosis and a treatment plan tailored to your needs!
Sources of information:
[1] "Hyperhidrosis: Types, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment." Cleveland Clinic, 2023, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17113-hyperhidrosis. Accessed on April 23, 2024.
[2] "Hyperhidrosis - Symptoms and Causes." Mayo Clinic, 2022, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hyperhidrosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20367152. Accessed on April 23, 2024.
[3] M. Simonetta Moreau, et al. "A Double-Blind, Randomized, Comparative Study of DysportR vs. BotoxR in Primary Palmar Hyperhidrosis." British Journal of Dermatology/British Journal of Dermatology, Supplementvol. 149, no. 5, Nov. 1, 2003, pp. 1041-1045, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14632812/, https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2133.2003.05620.x. Accessed April 23, 2024.
