Excessive Sweating

What is excessive sweating?

Excessive sweating is more formally known as hyperhidrosis, a condition in which a person experiences more sweating than usual. Sweating is normal, and it happens when the body is working harder than average and needs to cool itself down. People with hyperhidrosis may sweat heavily for no reason. Sitting in moderate temperature without any factor weighing in to make you sweat, yet you're still sweating, is a sign of hyperhidrosis. Let's consider that the temperature is mild, and you're not nervous and don't seem to be having a fever, yet you're sweating uncontrollably; that's not normal. Some people might not be affected by excessive sweating however, others can be so embarrassed that they might limit their social interactions because of it.

There are two types of hyperhidrosis :

• localised sweating, also known as primary focal hyperhidrosis

• generalised sweating, also known as secondary general hyperhidrosis

Localised sweating

It is the most common form of excessive sweating that only affects about 1-3 % of the population. It is a condition in which you sweat merely at your body's specific parts, such as your underarms, groin, hands, feet, and face. Localised sweating does not boost the chances of an illness. A lot of people face embarrassment in their day-to-day life because of primary focal hyperhidrosis.

Generalised sweating

It is the less common form of excessive sweating in which a person sweats all over their body. It is considered to be more severe than the former. Usually, it is caused by some underlying conditions already existing in a person's body. Occasionally, people develop excessive sweating in the later years of their life, more specifically middle and older age.

Some people mistake anxiety sweating with excessive sweating because people with anxiety disorders tend to sweat more than others, but it isn't the same as hyperhidrosis. However, people can have these two conditions at the same time.

To get a diagnosis, the doctor carries a physical examination of the patient. They ask specific questions that help them understand your condition better. They might also ask to get a sweat test done in which they coat your skin with a powder that turns to purple when the skin gets wet or sweaty.

What are the causes of excessive sweating?

Localised sweating tends to be caused by a slight malfunction in the nervous system. Some evidence has proved that localised sweating may also be due to genetics.

Generalised sweating may be  caused by several medical conditions and diseases, including:

• Menopause

• Pregnancy

• Thyroid problems

• Diabetes

• Alcoholism

• Stroke

• Heart failure

• Parkinson's disease

• Leukaemia

Medicines that can also cause general sweating are:

• Antibiotics

• Hypertension medication

• Psychiatric drugs

• Supplements

Excessive sweating can be an indication of thyroid problems or diabetes. Out-of-shape people tend to experience excessive sweating more than others.

What are the common symptoms of excessive sweating?

The signs and symptoms of localised sweating are just excessive sweating that only affects specific parts of your body such as hands, feet, face, and armpits. It is most symmetrical sweating and does not just happen on one side of the body. Here are some symptoms that indicate that you should visit a doctor:

• Night sweats: if you wake up in cold sweats and your sheets and pillow are damp.

• Asymmetrical sweating: sweating from only one side of your body.

• Abrupt changes: Intense sweating.

• Changes from medication: excessive sweating after beginning a new medicine.

If you or anyone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it is advised to visit a doctor for a check-up.

How to treat excessive sweating?

Although there is no cure for localised hyperhidrosis, the following are some ways to reduce its symptoms:

1. Antiperspirants
2. Iontophoresis
3. Medications
4. Botox
5. Surgery

Antiperspirants

Different over-the-counter or prescription sprays, balms can help reduce symptoms. Antiperspirants contain aluminium salts which can help reduce sweating. Over the counter, antiperspirants have comparatively fewer side effects than prescribed ones. If they don't work for you, you should consult a doctor. Antiperspirants have deodorants that can control the odour but can't prevent sweating. Side effects include burning sensation and irritated skin.

Iontophoresis

This treatment can temporarily disable the sweat glands. It is a treatment in which a person sits with their hands, feet, and affected areas in a tray of water for half an hour while a low electrical current passes through the water. Doctors choose to believe that this treatment helps block sweat glands. This treatment needs to be done a couple of times a week, depending on the person. It's a safe treatment, but it is not recommended for pregnant women and people with heart conditions or epilepsy as it does involve an electric current. Side effects may include dry and irritated skin with a tad bit of discomfort during the treatment.

Medications

Some medication can limit your sweat glands from kicking in.

Botox

Botox injection can temporarily limit the nerves from triggering hyperhidrosis. It has proven to be effective to treat excessive underarm sweating. This treatment is FDA approved and has substantiated to be effective. It releases a chemical that stops the activation of sweat glands. The result only lasts up to a year. Side effects include temporary muscle weakness.

Anticholinergic

Doctors will prescribe this treatment for people who have tried botox and iontophoresis, and it did not work for them. It has some side effects, including blurred vision, urinary problems, and heart palpitations.

Surgery

You can get some of your sweat glands surgically removed. Surgery methods include excision, liposuction, curettage and laser surgery. Sympathectomy is another surgical method that is done to treat hyperhidrosis. In this surgery, the surgeon stops the nerve signals that our body sends to the sweat glands.

Home remedies

There are a number of ways to manage excessive sweating naturally, which may not be suitable in the long run, however can help. Being prepared and carrying an extra top with you. Bathing or showering every day using an antibacterial soap can control the bacteria that may be causing sweaty skin and odours. Underarm liners and specially formulated socks for sweaty feet can help absorb the sweat too. It can help you avoid ruining clothes.

Secondary hyperhidrosis can be treated too, although you need to determine the underlying condition that is causing it. Hyperhidrosis caused by diabetes and thyroid problems can be dealt with their respective medication and surgery. Many people don't take excessive sweating seriously and ignore the symptoms for months or even years. Excessive sweating can be an indication of a severe underlying health condition.

Can I buy excessive sweating treatment online?

Yes! You can quickly and discreetly buy excessive sweating treatment online through our website.

How long does it take to treat excessive sweating?

All the treatments for excessive sweating take about a few weeks to complete, and only then can you see a difference. Botox lasts for a year or so, but it takes a couple of weeks to dry up after you first get it done. A person can resume their usual activities immediately after getting botox injections.

Patient information leaflet

Always read your patient information leaflet before starting your treatment.