Are you worried about your Hyperhidrosis?
If there are no obvious causes for the symptom you are experiencing you will likely be referred to a specialist dermatologist to investigate the root cause. Possible treatments for hyperhidrosis that affects large areas of the body include medication that can reduce sweating all over the body. For localised sweating that is confined to a specific area, like the underarm it may be beneficial to have a treatment called iontophoresis, a safe and effective process that involves having a weak current pass over the skin applied via a wet pad.
Another possible treatment that may surprise you is Botox, an injection of Botulinum toxin that can cause localised, temporary paralysis that reduces the sweating relieving hyperhidrosis symptoms. In very extreme cases surgery may be suggested to remove the sweat glands that are the source of the problem although it is used as a last resort and many people who suffer from hyperhidrosis will respond to other options.
While it may be normal to experience sweating, particularly when you are exerting yourself physically or when the temperature rises, you may struggle to adjust to situations when your sweating has no apparent cause. You may notice an increase in your body odour or feel embarrassed when your sweat seeps through clothing leaving wet patches. Hyperhidrosis is often acutely detrimental to a person’s mental health. However, there are things that you can do to help reduce the negative impact that this condition may have on your ability to lead a healthy and happy life. For advice on what you should and should not do when you are suffering from hyperhidrosis refer to the list below.
Things you can do to help
- Wear loose-fitting clothing that minimises contact with the skin, keeping you cooler and more comfortable
- Remember to wear socks to wick away moisture from your skin and change them regularly to avoid a build-up of odour
- Use natural materials like cotton and leather for shoes
- Use anti-perspirants and foot powders
Things you should avoid doing
- Do not wear very tight clothing and avoid wearing synthetic fabrics like nylon
- Do not wear enclosed shoes made from synthetic materials
- Avoid activities that could exacerbate your problem, like drinking alcohol or eating very spicy food
Experiencing unexplained excessive sweating can often increase someone’s anxiety levels and have a negative effect on their everyday life. The underlying cause or condition will likely dictate how the condition is treated. If you experience any of the symptoms listed below it is a good idea to contact your doctor to book a consultation to investigate the possible reasons for the condition.
- If you have been experiencing unexplained sweating for a while and the steps you have taken to address the problem have not worked
- if it is having a significant impact on your ability to lead a normal life
- If you have been experiencing regular bouts of sweating
- If you are experiencing excessive sweating as a side effect of medication you are taking and are concerned
- If you have experienced excessive sweating during the night
- The condition runs in your family
Here at VIDA we have expert clinicians on hand to help diagnose and treat your condition. To find out more about these services, we recommend visiting the following pages:
- Cancer
- Diabetes
- Heart attack
- Hereditary
- Infections
- Low blood sugar
- Menopause hot flashes
- Nervous system disorders
- Some types of cancer
- Thyroid problems