Excessive Sweating

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What is hyperhidrosis?

In some people, the body’s mechanism for cooling itself is overactive — so overactive that they may sweat four or five times more than is necessary, or normal. When sweating is this extreme it can be embarrassing, uncomfortable, anxiety-inducing, and disabling. It can disrupt all aspects of a person’s life, from career choices and recreational activities to relationships, emotional well-being, and self-image.

This kind of excessive sweating is a serious medical condition. It’s called hyperhidrosis and it afflicts millions of people around the world (approximately 3% of the population) but because of lack of awareness, more than half of these people are never diagnosed or treated for their symptoms.

How is hyperhidrosis treated?

Antiperspirants are considered the first line of treatment for excessive sweating of the underarms, hands, feet, and sometimes face. Prescription antiperspirants are available that are stronger than what you can get over-the-counter.

Iontophoresis uses a simple device to treat excessive sweating of the hands and feet. It is particularly useful for people who’ve tried prescription strength antiperspirants but find that they need a stronger treatment.

In 2004, for the first time in decades, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) approved a new treatment for excessive sweating of the underarms: BOTOX®. Research has shown that treating the armpits, hands, feet, and face with botulinum toxin is safe and effective.

Due to side effects, oral medications are not recommended as a long-term solution. Similarly, surgical options, are reserved for only certain severe cases of hyperhidrosis that have not responded to any of the other treatment options.

Sometimes a combination of treatments works best. We will work with you to tailor a treatment regimen that works best for you.

Other Resources

• AAD pamphlet on hyperhidrosis
• International Hyperhidrosis Society