Excessive Sweating (hyperhidrosis)

Managing Excessive Sweating

Excessive sweating is a common condition that can impact the entire body or specific areas. While it may improve with age, there are strategies and treatments available to alleviate symptoms.

It’s natural to perspire when feeling hot or engaging in physical activity. However, excessive sweating occurs when your body perspires unnecessarily to cool down.

This issue may arise without a clear trigger, potentially linked to an underlying health condition or medication side effects. Menopausal individuals may also experience intense sweating known as hot flashes.

Tips for Managing Excessive Sweating

Do:

  • Opt for loose-fitting attire to mitigate visible signs of sweating.
  • Choose moisture-absorbing socks and change them at least twice daily, if feasible.
  • Wear breathable leather shoes and rotate footwear regularly.

Don’t:

  • Avoid tight garments or synthetic fabrics like nylon.
  • Steer clear of enclosed boots or sports shoes that may exacerbate foot perspiration.
  • Refrain from activities that could amplify sweating, such as consuming alcohol or spicy foods.

Treating Severe Excessive Sweating

In cases of severe and unrelenting sweating, a dermatologist referral may be necessary. Additional treatment options might include:

  • Oral medications aimed at reducing perspiration.
  • Iontophoresis, a technique involving a mild electric current applied to affected areas via water or a moist pad.
  • Botox injections targeting excessive underarm sweating.
  • Surgical interventions like sweat gland removal.

Should excessive sweating stem from an underlying condition, treatment will be contingent upon addressing the root cause.