Causes of Hyperhidrosis
There are various possible causes of hyperhidrosis, though the exact reason why some people experience excess sweating is often unknown. Some potential causes include:
Genetics – Having a family history of hyperhidrosis increases the chances of developing it. For many people, it seems to be inherited through autosomal dominant genetic traits.
Neurological disorders – Conditions that affect the nervous system like Parkinson’s disease, stroke, multiple sclerosis or tumors on the spinal cord can potentially cause hyperhidrosis as a symptom.
Menopause – Changes in hormone levels during menopause make some women experience increased sweating.
Medications – Certain prescription drugs like antibiotics, diuretics, antidepressants and opioids may induce or worsen sweating as a side effect for some individuals.
Anxiety – Emotional stress, anxiety disorders and panic attacks are linked with worsening hyperhidrosis in many cases. The excess sweat response is considered a psychological condition for some.
Types of Hyperhidrosis Treatments
There are several treatment options available for hyperhidrosis depending on the severity and location of excess sweating. Treatment goals are typically focused on reducing sweat production and keeping it under control.
Topical treatments: Over-the-counter or prescription antiperspirant creams, lotions or medicines applied directly to the skin can help control sweating in certain areas. Aluminum chloride hexahydrate is a common active ingredient that plugs sweat ducts.
Mouthwashes: Medicated mouthwashes containing aluminum chloride can effectively treat excessive underarm sweating when used as a rinse daily.
Botox injections: This medical treatment involves injections of botulinum toxin into sweaty areas of the skin every 4-6 months on average. Botox blocks nerve signals to sweat glands temporarily.
Iontopheresis: A regulated low-voltage electric current is passed between two plates immersed in water, with the affected areas exposed. This blocks sweat gland function and reduces future sweating in a series of at-home 30-minute hyperhidrosis treatment over several weeks.
Oral medications: Antidepressants like antidepressants from the groups of SSRIs and SNRIs may decrease sweating by balancing neurochemicals in the brain like serotonin and norepinephrine.
Surgery: For severe axillary hyperhidrosis unresponsive to other treatments, surgical procedures destroy sweat glands under the arms permanently through minimally invasive endoscopic techniques. Laser therapy or liposuction are other surgical options.
Lifestyle Changes for Managing Hyperhidrosis
Beyond medical Hyperhidrosis Treatment , daily habits and routines make a difference in coping with excessive sweating:
– Dress in breathable cotton fabrics and light layers that wick moisture away from the skin
– Wear dark or solid colored clothing that hides sweat stains better
– Apply antiperspirant or drying powders to the affected areas before getting dressed
– Carry extra shirts or antiperspirant for touch-ups throughout the day
– Practice stress-relieving activities like exercise, yoga and meditation
– Use fans or air conditioning when possible to stay cool and dry
– Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated rather than sweating excessively
– Avoid heavily spiced foods, caffeine and alcohol which may worsen sweating
Hyperhidrosis Treatments – Which is Best?
Choosing the most suitable treatment plan requires considering the individual’s specific symptoms, triggers and how much sweating impacts daily life. Side effects are also a factor. Generally, topical and prescription oral medications offer mild-moderate relief with fewer risks than invasive procedures. However, for severe hyperhidrosis not responding to other options, iontophoresis, Botox injections, surgery or a combination approach may produce the best long-term management. Consulting a dermatologist can help create a customized treatment strategy based on a thorough medical evaluation and discussion of expectations. With patience and consistency, people living with hyperhidrosis find effective ways to minimize excess sweating.
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