Hyperhidrosis: Understanding and Treating Excessive Sweating
What is Hyperhidrosis?
Hyperhidrosis is a heavy sweating condition where excessive sweating occurs without physical exertion. People living with this excessive sweating skin condition may soak clothing or experience sweat dripping from hands and feet. It disrupts daily life and can cause anxiety and embarrassment.
Primary hyperhidrosis usually begins in childhood or adolescence and has no known cause. Secondary hyperhidrosis occurs due to an underlying medical condition or medication.
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If you live with this excessive sweating skin disorder, finding relief is possible. We offer a range of hyperhidrosis treatment in Sussex, including locations such as Brighton, Hove and Worthing.
Treatments for Secondary Hyperhidrosis
In secondary hyperhidrosis, identifying and managing the root cause of the excessive sweating is essential. Treating the cause can significantly reduce sweating.
Diagnosis of Hyperhidrosis
If you suspect you have an excessive sweating disorder, a dermatologist can perform several tests:
Medical History and Physical Examination
The doctor will assess when and where sweating occurs to determine if it is primary or secondary hyperhidrosis.
Starch-Iodine Test
An iodine solution and starch powder highlight areas of excessive sweating skin condition by turning dark blue or purple.
Gravimetric Sweat Test
Filter paper measures sweat levels to precisely diagnose the heavy sweating condition.
Thermoregulatory Sweat Test
In a controlled environment, powder reveals excessive sweating patterns as temperatures rise.
Blood Tests
These rule out underlying conditions like thyroid disease, diabetes, or infections contributing to the excessive sweating medical condition.
Neurological Assessment
A neurological exam checks for nerve-related causes of an excessive sweating disorder.
Treatments for Primary Hyperhidrosis
Antiperspirants
You may start with antiperspirants based on Aluminium Chloride such as Driclor. These help reduce sweat production.
Iontophoresis
Alternatively, you can try Iontophoresis. This treatment uses a mild electric current through water or a wet pad to reduce hand and foot sweating.
If antiperspirants or iontophoresis don’t help, you may need to try different medications and therapies, such as:
Anti-Cholinergics
The most commonly used medications for managing excessive sweating skin disorders are anti-cholinergics such as Glycopyrrolate, Oxybutinin and others.
Botox Injections
Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections provide excellent results for severe underarm sweating. Unfortunately, they are less effective and extremely painful for hands and feet.
Surgery
In severe cases, your doctor may suggest surgery either to remove the sweat glands or to disconnect the nerves responsible for the overproduction of sweat. Sometimes an underlying cause may be found and treated.
Where can I read more on Hyperhidrosis?
Visit Hyperhidrosis UK for more advice, or browse the British Association of Dermatologists patient information leaflets for trusted resources.
Local Hyperhidrosis Treatment Experts
If you are struggling with an excessive sweating skin condition, book a consultation with us for expert hyperhidrosis treatment in Brighton, Hove or Worthing today.