Excessive sweating can be inconvenient, uncomfortable, and embarrassing. Fortunately for those who experience this problem, it’s also a treatable medical issue known as hyperhidrosis. While sweating is necessary to cool the body, it’s possible for the sweat glands to be over-productive, leading to hyperhidrosis. This condition often arises during adolescence. Left untreated, it can persist throughout life. Some people develop excessive sweating when they reach adulthood.
How Much is Too Much?
Sweating is considered hyperhidrosis when it interferes with daily activities like typing, unlocking a door, or turning a doorknob; when sweat soaks through the clothes, causing stains; or when skin infections develop. Most people with excessive sweating experience the issue in just one or two areas of the body, but it is most common in the underarms. Other parts of the body produce a normal amount of sweat.
You should seek professional help if you notice sweating as described above, or if you experience:
- Visible sweat drops
- Wet, peeling skin
- Frequent skin irritation or infection
What Causes Hyperhidrosis?
Doctors aren’t exactly sure what causes the condition. While excessive sweating sometimes occurs on its own (primary), it can also be triggered by another medical condition (secondary). Conditions that can cause secondary hyperhidrosis include diabetes, gout, head trauma, menopause, obesity, overactive thyroid, or a tumor.
While you may be embarrassed by hyperhidrosis, it’s important to understand that you’re not alone. This condition affects up to three percent of Americans and can often be resolved with the proper medical treatment.
How is Hyperhidrosis Treated?
Many people try to treat excessive sweating with a prescription clinical-strength antiperspirant. This aims to plug the sweat glands, signaling the body to produce less sweat. However, this is usually not very effective for most people. BOTOX® injections are approved by the FDA for use in the underarms to reduce sweating. This is a simple, in-office treatment that requires virtually no downtime and can be performed around your other activities.
You don’t have to live with excessive sweating. If you have signs of hyperhidrosis, talk with our specialist at Perfect Skin Center and see if BOTOX® can work for you. We’d be happy to assess your case at our office in Scottsdale or Tempe. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
