What Is Hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition characterized by excessive sweating that goes beyond the body’s normal thermoregulation needs. If you’re finding yourself drenched in sweat even in cool temperatures or during minimal activity, hyperhidrosis may be the underlying cause. This condition can affect different areas of the body, such as the underarms, hands, feet and face, significantly impacting daily life and confidence.

While everyone sweats to regulate body temperature, those with hyperhidrosis experience sweating unrelated to physical exertion or heat. The issue can be so severe that it interferes with daily tasks, from holding a pen to shaking hands. Fortunately, hyperhidrosis is treatable, and with the right approach, you can regain control over this frustrating condition.

How Common Is Hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis is more common than you might think. According to a study from St. Louis University, around 3% of the U.S. population (7.8 million people) suffers from this condition. However, many individuals who have hyperhidrosis are unaware that it’s a medical issue that can be treated. Instead, they suffer silently, trying various over-the-counter products without realizing professional treatments can offer long-term relief.

If you’ve been dealing with excessive sweating, know that you don’t have to live with it forever. Effective treatments are available, and with the help of a Board-Certified Dermatologist like Dr. Cohen at AboutSkin Dermatology and Aesthetics, you can find the right solution for your needs.

Types of Hyperhidrosis

There are two main types of hyperhidrosis:

  • Primary focal hyperhidrosis: This form typically affects specific areas of the body like the underarms, palms, face or soles of the feet. It usually begins in childhood or adolescence and is not caused by an underlying medical condition.
  • Secondary generalized hyperhidrosis: This type is often linked to an underlying medical condition, such as thyroid problems, diabetes or menopause. It can also be a side effect of certain medications. Unlike primary hyperhidrosis, secondary hyperhidrosis tends to affect larger areas of the body and may occur while sleeping.

What Causes Hyperhidrosis?

The exact cause of hyperhidrosis isn’t fully understood, but it is believed to result from overactivity in the sympathetic nervous system. This part of the nervous system controls the body’s sweat glands, and in those with hyperhidrosis, the signals sent to the sweat glands are overactive, causing excessive sweating.

In primary focal hyperhidrosis, genetics may play a role, as it often runs in families.

For secondary generalized hyperhidrosis, the causes can include:

  • Hormonal changes (e.g., menopause)
  • Thyroid issues (e.g., hyperthyroidism)
  • Certain medications
  • Infections or fevers
  • Diabetes or low blood sugar
  • Heart problems

Understanding the type and cause of hyperhidrosis is essential for finding the most effective treatment plan.

Hyperhidrosis Treatment Options

At AboutSkin Dermatology and Aesthetics, we offer treatment options to help you manage hyperhidrosis effectively. Depending on the severity of your condition and the areas affected, Dr. Cohen and his team will recommend the most appropriate hyperhidrosis solution for your needs.

Topical Treatments: Aluminum Chloride

For mild cases of hyperhidrosis, topical treatments containing aluminum chloride (the active ingredient in many clinical-strength antiperspirants) can be effective. These products work by blocking the sweat glands, reducing the amount of sweat produced in the treated area.

While you can find aluminum chloride in over-the-counter clinical deodorants, your physician may prescribe a higher-concentration formula if your sweating is more severe. These stronger treatments are applied at night to the affected areas, and they can provide noticeable relief over time.

BOTOX® for Underarm Hyperhidrosis

When excessive underarm sweating (axillary hyperhidrosis) doesn’t respond well to topical treatments, Botox injections are a highly effective, FDA-approved option. Botox works by blocking the nerve signals responsible for activating the sweat glands, significantly reducing the amount of sweat produced.

Benefits of BOTOX® for Hyperhidrosis:
  • Quick results: You can start to see the effects of Botox within seven to 10 days after treatment.
  • Long-lasting relief: The results typically last about eight months, giving you extended control over underarm sweating.
  • Minimal downtime: Botox injections are quick, and you can return to most daily activities immediately afterward.

Botox has been a game-changer for individuals with underarm hyperhidrosis, offering them freedom from the embarrassment and discomfort of excessive sweating. If you’ve struggled with over-the-counter solutions, Botox may provide the dramatic improvement you’re looking for.

Other Treatment Options for Hyperhidrosis

While Botox is the gold standard for treating underarm hyperhidrosis, additional treatment options are available for excessive sweating in other areas of the body.

Iontophoresis

For those dealing with sweaty hands and feet, iontophoresis is a noninvasive treatment that uses electrical currents to temporarily disable the sweat glands. During treatment, the affected areas are submerged in water, and a mild electrical current is passed through the water, targeting the sweat glands. This procedure is typically done several times a week until sweating is reduced.

Prescription Medications

If topical treatments or Botox aren’t effective, oral medications may be prescribed. These medications, known as anticholinergics, work by blocking the chemical signals that trigger sweat production. However, they can cause side effects such as dry mouth, blurred vision and constipation, so they are usually considered when other treatments have not been successful.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Hyperhidrosis Treatment?

If you find that excessive sweating is affecting your quality of life, you may be a good candidate for hyperhidrosis treatment. Whether you’ve tried every antiperspirant on the market without success or you’re just starting to seek help, treatment is available for various degrees of hyperhidrosis.

Some signs that you may benefit from treatment include:

  • Sweating excessively even in cool or air-conditioned environments
  • Experiencing sweat that soaks through clothing frequently
  • Avoiding social interactions or activities due to fear of sweating
  • Trying several over-the-counter products with little or no success

For underarm hyperhidrosis specifically, Botox injections are safe and effective for most individuals. Dr. Cohen can help determine whether this treatment or another option would be most suitable for your condition based on your medical history and the severity of your symptoms.

 

Hyperhidrosis Treatment Recovery and Downtime

Most hyperhidrosis treatments involve minimal downtime. For Botox injections, you can return to your normal activities immediately after the procedure, though it’s advised to avoid intense exercise for a day. There may be slight redness or tenderness at the injection site, but these Botox side effects typically subside within a few hours.

If you’re using topical aluminum chloride treatments, some mild skin irritation may occur, especially if applied improperly. Your Dermatologist will provide guidance on how to use these treatments correctly to minimize side effects.

Other treatments, such as iontophoresis, may require several sessions before you see the full effects, but downtime is minimal, and discomfort is usually mild.

Expected Results From Hyperhidrosis Treatment

When Will I See Results?

The timeline for seeing results depends on the type of treatment you choose. For Botox, you can expect to notice a reduction in sweating within seven to 10 days after treatment. Topical treatments and iontophoresis may take a few weeks of consistent use to achieve noticeable results.

How Long Will My Treatment Results Last?

Botox results typically last for eight months, after which time a repeat treatment may be needed to maintain the effects. Topical treatments require regular application. Your Dermatologist will discuss the best maintenance plan for you based on your treatment choice and personal needs.

Get Relief From Hyperhidrosis: Call for a Consultation Today

You don’t have to live with excessive sweating. At AboutSkin Dermatology and Aesthetics, we understand how hyperhidrosis can impact your life, and we offer personalized treatments to help you regain control. Whether you’re interested in Botox for your underarms or another treatment option, Dr. Cohen and his team are here to help.

Call 303-756-7546 or contact us online today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a sweat-free future!

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