People with hyperhidrosis seem to get overactive sweating glands in almost all areas of their bodies. However, the most affected areas are the underarms, feet, hands, and especially the face. When excessive sweating occurs in the underarm, feet, hands, or armpits, it’s known as primary hyperhidrosis. In addition to the face, it also commonly occurs on the scalp, back of the neck, chest, and cheeks.
If the hands and underarms are affected, a doctor may recommend surgical treatment. Underarm sweating surgery entails:
- Removal of hair.
- Bleaching of skin.
- Injection of a solution to stop excess sweat from forming.
- Scalding or freezing of affected areas.
Sometimes, a patient may only need to shave the underarm hair. Surgical treatment may require general anesthesia. The surgical method may vary for each case, so you should contact your doctor for more information.
In some cases, your provider will recommend you avoid exercise, which may help prevent excessive sweating in the underarm and hands. You may also want to wear cotton-made clothing instead of wool, silk, or nylon since these materials are known to cause sweating. Your provider may also advise you to wear white clothes whenever possible to keep excess sweat away from your skin. One product that is in high demand and which can help you cure your problem of sweating is drysol extra strength dab on.
Many people with hyperhidrosis find that another underlying condition causes sweating. If it’s not a medical issue, you will want to rule out other possible conditions such as fungal infections, diabetes, thyroid problems, pregnancy, or a disease of the urinary tract. It’s important to note that all situations must have a clear cause before treatment can begin. So if you’re experiencing excessive underarm or hand sweating but don’t know the reason, consult your doctor.
Once you’ve ruled out other causes, your physician will evaluate the sweating problem. One common symptom of hyperhidrosis is sweaty palms. Sweaty palms can be embarrassing, especially if it’s uncontrollable. Many people with this condition find that taking an antiperspirant (odorless and non-toxic) that contains aluminum chloride can control their sweating. If your hands and feet are excessively sweaty, ask your dermatologist for advice about prescribing a deodorant with aluminum chloride. Deodorants block pores and absorb sweat. If you sweat too much it can cause dandruff in your hair if not washed from time to time. To get rid of ringworms in hair, nizoral extra strength or ketoconazole 2% can help.
Other common symptoms of excessive sweating are:
- Excessive foot sweating.
- Palms and face sweating.
- Excessive underarm sweating.
- Excessive sweating in the groin.
- Dry mouth.
People with hyperhidrosis also suffer from symptoms such as restlessness, irritability, social anxiety, and depression. This can make treating hyperhidrosis difficult because the disorder can also affect people’s feelings of well-being. If you’re depressed because of your sweating problems, talk to your doctor about possible treatment methods. Antiperspirants that have aluminum chloride as one of the ingredients help in overcoming depression. Your doctor might also recommend antidepressants to help control your depression symptoms and your hyperactive sweat as well.
Other people find that their symptoms can be treated by making lifestyle changes. For example, if you tend to eat spicy foods when you’re anxious or stressed, you should limit your intake of hot foods. Reduce your consumption of chili, add more vegetables to your diet, and avoid caffeine-based drinks. This helps in preventing the development of eczema, which can be caused by a lifestyle that includes too much exposure to sweat-drenched conditions. Other lifestyle changes you can make include drinking plenty of water, exercising daily, and reducing stress in your life. Lifestyle changes can help clear the cause of sweating, but they won’t cure the underlying condition.
It’s essential to speak to your dermatologist regarding your sweating problem. Although you may be able to treat your symptoms with over-the-counter medications, it’s essential to know that there are times when your doctor will prescribe medication. Your doctor may recommend certain medicines because sweating isn’t causing you any physical harm but instead is making you feel uncomfortable and exposing yourself to the possibility of other health problems. You’ll likely want to talk with your dermatologist about possible medications to help you with your hyperactive sweat glands, such as beta-blockers and anticholinergics. However, these medications are typically only used when your sweating is very severe.
