Excessive Sweating
What is excessive sweating?
Excessive sweating, also called hyperhidrosis, can affect the entire body, but usually occurs in the palms, soles, armpits, and/or groin area. Excessive sweating is normal when a person is anxious or has a fever. However, when the condition is chronic, it may signal thyroid problems, low blood sugar levels, or a nervous system disorder.
What are the symptoms of excessive sweating?
Areas that produce excessive sweat usually appear pink or white, but, in severe cases, may appear cracked, scaly, and soft (especially on the feet). Other symptoms may include a bad odor caused by bacteria and yeast in the wet skin.
The symptoms of excessive sweating may resemble other medical conditions. Always
consult your physician for a diagnosis.
Treatment for excessive sweating:
Specific treatment for excessive sweating will be determined by your physician, based on:
- your age, overall health, and medical history
- severity of the condition
- cause of the condition
- your tolerance of specific medications, procedures, or therapies
- expectations for the course of the condition
- your opinion or preference
Treatment may include topical, oral, surgical, or nonsurgical treatments:
- methenamine solution applications to the area (to control heavy sweating)
- nighttime applications of aluminum chloride solution to the area (to
control heavy sweating)
- thoracoscopic sympathectomy - a surgical interruption of the sympathetic
nerve pathways that lead to the sweat glands
- botulinum toxin A injection (Botox®) - botulinum toxin helps to inhibit
the release of acetylcholine (a substance that is active in the transmissions
of nerve impulses)
- tap water iontophoresis (applying a weak electrical current to the area)
- psychological counseling and/or medication (to reduce anxiety)
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