Treatment for Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)

What is Hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis is defined as “excessive sweating”. It typically happens in the palms, soles, and armpits, or where sweat glands are present. It affects 3% of the US population. Men and women are equally affected, as are all races. Usually, there is no known cause for this condition, but it can sometimes be due to an underlying illness or medication, which our board-certified dermatologists will help you determine. The good news is this condition is treatable.

What Causes Hyperhidrosis?

There isn’t one specific cause of hyperhidrosis, but there are several factors that can contribute to it. Some of the causes of hyperhidrosis include:

• Stress
• Heat exposure
• Anxiety
• Certain medications
• Medical conditions such as diabetes or thyroid problems

How to Know if You Have Hyperhidrosis

There are many signs that you may be suffering from hyperhidrosis. Hyperhidrosis symptoms include visible excess sweating for at least 6 months, which is usually symmetric (for example, happens in both armpits rather than just one) and impairs your daily activities. You may notice excessive sweating even when you are not hot or are not exerting yourself.  Some people find that the sweating gets worse when they are nervous or anxious but some people notice that they are sweating through shirts even when they are not at all nervous.

Hyperhidrosis symptoms usually start before you are 25 years old. Most people who suffer from hyperhidrosis have an affected family member, but not always. Hyperhidrosis occurs only when you are awake, and stops when you are asleep. Many people with hyperhidrosis are self-conscious of their sweating and change the patterns of their daily life due to their excessive sweating (for example, they may avoid certain social settings due to fear of sweating through clothing).  

What are the Treatments for Hyperhidrosis?

There are many treatments for hyperhidrosis. They include various over-the-counter antiperspirants (such as Certain Dri®, Carpe®, or SweatBlock®), prescription antiperspirants (such as aluminum chloride or Qbrexza® wipes), oral medications (such as glycopyrrolate), botulinum toxin (Botox®), and a therapy called iontophoresis. We offer all of these hyperhidrosis treatments at the Dermatology Institute of Boston. Our doctors can guide you to the correct therapy for your particular case of excessive sweating.

Treatment options:

• Antiperspirants
• Iontophoresis
• Botox
• Medicines
• Surgery

Contact Us

If you think you may be suffering from hyperhidrosis, please visit a board-certified dermatologist to get treated. Hyperhidrosis Awareness Month is the perfect time to get informed and seek treatment if necessary. Don’t allow hyperhidrosis to control your life—get the help you need. To schedule your appointment or book a consultation to treat excessive sweating, please call or contact the Hyperhidrosis Dermatologists in our Boston office today!