Excessive sweating (or hyperhidrosis) can be extremely stressful, embarrassing and, in severe cases, disabling. At Valley View Dermatology, we have many treatment options to address this condition — and we can help identify underlying medical conditions that could be causing excessive sweating.
About the condition
What is hyperhidrosis?
Hyperhidrosis is a condition where the body produces excessive sweat — more than is needed for body temperature regulation — typically around the underarms, scalp, face, hands and feet.
There are two kinds of hyperhidrosis:
Generalized Hyperhidrosis: Generalized hyperhidrosis is characterized by excessive sweating that occurs at least once a week in a few focused areas of the body — usually underarms, hands, feet or forehead. Generalized hyperhidrosis typically begins in childhood or adolescence.
Secondary Hyperhidrosis: Secondary hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating caused by a medical condition. Some of these conditions are:
- Menopause
- Hyperthyroidism
- Blood disorders
- Infection
- Diabetes
- Neurologic syndromes
What causes hyperhidrosis?
Researchers are still working on discovering the cause of generalized hyperhidrosis. What they’ve found so far is that it is often inherited, and may be related to overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system — the system that tells your body when to sweat.
When should I see a dermatologist about hyperhidrosis?
If your quality of life is impacted by excessive sweating, or if excessive sweating has come on suddenly, it’s important to see a dermatologist.
Locations treating sweating
I would never want to go anywhere else. The staff is wonderful, caring, and very professional and the doctor is so easy to speak with, he really takes the time to explain. I really appreciate all of the time that they spend with me.
Diagnosis and treatment options for sweating
Our experienced providers will discuss your medical history and symptoms, and perform a physical exam or tests to evaluate the cause and severity of your condition. While there’s no cure for hyperhidrosis, Valley View providers can devise a treatment plan to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.
Antiperspirants
The first line of defense against hyperhidrosis for many individuals is prescription-strength antiperspirants. Unlike regular over-the-counter antiperspirants, those designed for hyperhidrosis contain aluminum chloride hexahydrate, a powerful agent that helps block sweat gland activity. Applied to the affected areas (commonly the armpits, hands, feet, and sometimes the face) usually before bed, these antiperspirants work overnight to reduce sweat production. It’s important to note that while these antiperspirants can be effective for mild cases of hyperhidrosis, individuals with more severe sweating might require additional treatments.
Botox injections
Botulinum toxin, popularly known as Botox, is FDA-approved for treating severe underarm sweating when topical agents don’t work. The toxin works by blocking the nerves responsible for activating sweat glands. When these nerves can’t signal the sweat glands, the amount of sweat that’s produced decreases. Botox treatments involve multiple small injections directly into the affected areas. The effects of the injections usually last for several months, after which the treatment can be repeated. In addition to underarms, Botox injections can also be used for the palms, soles, and sometimes the face.
Schedule an appointment
Take the first step today: book an appointment at the clinic that’s convenient for you. We look forward to creating a personalized treatment just for you.
Call 971-374-2150