Hyperhidrosis: What it is and how to treat excessive sweating

Hyperhidrosis is a disorder that affects the sweat glands and can cause great discomfort. This problem is characterized by excessive and uncontrollable sweating in certain parts of the body, such as the hands, feet, armpits and face. Its appearance is not related to an increase in body temperature or to physical activity, as would be normal.

The function of sweating is to regulate our body temperature. However, with this dysfunction, our body’s cooling system changes completely. Sweat no longer appears just to cool our bodies down, but persists due to hyperstimulation of the sweat-producing glands.

Although it is not considered a serious illness, it is a conditioning factor. As well as causing constraints in social and professional life, it is aesthetically undesirable and can limit day-to-day activities. There are treatments for this problem, but it’s important to understand how it occurs and what causes it.

What is hyperhidrosis?

Better known as excessive sweating, hyperhidrosis is a benign condition caused by overstimulation of the sweat glands, which are responsible for sweat production. Although it worsens in hot weather or stress, this condition occurs without any obvious triggering factor. It can appear at a very young age and worsen with puberty or over the years.

In general, excessive sweating can be divided into two categories:

• Primary hyperhidrosis: This dysfunction is not triggered by internal factors, but may be associated with genetic issues. The first symptoms occur in childhood or adolescence and manifest in the hands, feet, armpits and/or craniofacial region.

• Secondary hyperhidrosis: This type is caused by internal factors such as illness, medication or hormonal changes. In this case, the symptoms manifest in adulthood and can occur in various areas of the body.

This dysfunction is a problem mainly associated with the nervous system. The sensation of excessive sweating can become very uncomfortable and trigger other symptoms or signs:

• Skin problems;
• Fungal or bacterial infections;
• Increased stress or anxiety in social interactions;
• Social isolation.

What can be the causes of excessive sweating?

Primary hyperhidrosis has an unknown origin. However, many cases stem from genetics and it is considered a hereditary disorder.

Secondary symptoms are caused by an associated pathology, such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hyperthyroidism, among others. Certain medications can also trigger symptoms.

4 Treatments to control hyperhidrosis

There are already a number of treatments for hyperhidrosis. However, not all of them are totally effective and some carry risks or side effects that should be evaluated. A conversation between the patient and the specialist or family doctor is important to determine which course of action to take.

1. Antiperspirants

Antiperspirant deodorants can be an option for milder cases. Cream solutions can be used on various areas of the body. They block the pores of the sweat glands in order to prevent perspiration. There are also some stronger options with results of up to a week, but they shouldn’t be used continuously because they cause skin irritation.

2. Drugs

Some drugs can inhibit the neurotransmitters that allow sweat to be produced, such as anticholinergics. Due to the high side effects and low efficacy of these drugs, it is not common to use this treatment. If the cause is stress, the use of anxiolytics can relieve the symptoms, although not treat them.

We recommend that medication for hyperhidrosis is prescribed and monitored by a doctor, otherwise it can have unwanted effects.

3. Surgery

For the most serious cases of excessive sweating, surgery can be a solution. There are options such as laser therapy and liposuction. However, these treatments are only for localized excessive sweating, usually in the armpits.

For the general problem or in several regions, endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy is an option. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and must be performed by a thoracic surgeon. It consists of a reversible technique of blocking the sympathetic nerve with titanium clips. It shows good results, but can cause adverse effects such as compensatory sweating, i.e. increased sweating in other parts of the body.

4. Botulinum toxin

The application of botulinum toxin is one of the most effective and safe solutions to this problem. It can be applied only to the affected areas in order to block the nerves that stimulate the functioning of the sweat glands. This results in a temporary reduction in sweat production. The effect of this aesthetic treatment lasts around 4 to 6 months and is completely safe if carried out by qualified professionals.

Although it’s not a disease, hyperhidrosis can cause a lot of embarrassment on a daily basis. Gain the confidence to carry out normal activities such as shaking hands, walking in flip-flops, handling leaves or giving a presentation in public.

Visit the Skin Boutiquewebsite, learn more about dysfunction and treatment. If you have any questions, we have a team of specialists ready to help.