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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)?
Hyperhidrosis is the medical term for excessive sweating. Without proper treatment, Hyperhidrosis can have a great impact on a sufferer's quality of life.
While not a dangerous disorder, Hyperhidrosis is unpleasant and inconvenient. Fortunately, doctors are now learning much more about this condition and how to manage it.
Can Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating) be treated?
Yes! There are a number of treatment options available to manage Hyperhidrosis. These range from topical preparations to surgery. To learn more about these treatments visit the various treatment option links on this website or go to the Find a Specialist section and make an appointment!
Plus, everyday, through the work of researchers and doctors around the world we are gaining understanding and treatment options of this unfortunate condition!
The future looks bright!
How common is Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)?
According to US statistics it is estimated that approximately 2.8 per cent of the American population suffers from excess sweating in a particular area of the body.
What areas of the body are most often affected by Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)?
When sweating occurs in certain places only, it is known as focal Hyperhidrosis. Most often, focal Hyperhidrosis affects the palms, soles of the feet, underarm and face. Underarm sweating is by far the most common with over 50% of the reported cases. When sweating occurs over the entire body, it is known as generalized Hyperhidrosis, but this is less common.
What causes Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)?
Although we’re getting closer to understanding it, it’s true that in most cases, the cause of Hyperhidrosis is unknown. This is known as primary Hyperhidrosis. Hyperhidrosis can also be caused by an underlying condition (e.g. metabolic disorders, menopause, obesity, nerve damage), and by some drugs although this is very uncommon. This is known as secondary Hyperhidrosis.
What are the current treatments for Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)?
The most common ways to treat Hyperhidrosis are:
- Focal injections: interrupting the signal from the nerve to the sweat glands
- Topical antiperspirant treatments: It plugs temporarily the sweat duct to stop sweat from being released
- Oral medication treatments: Treat the underlying conditions that trigger secondary hyperhydrosis
- Iontophoresis: applying low-intensity electric current to affected areas
- Surgery: severing the nerves that carry messages to the sweat glands or removing the sweat glands
Which treatment is most effective?
It's important to realize there is no single "right" way to treat Hyperhidrosis. Everyone is different. If you have Hyperhidrosis, you and your doctor need to discuss the option that best suits your situation. Where your hyperdidrosis occurs and how bothersome it is are all factors that have to be considered before choosing a treatment.
A consultation with a sweat management specialist will help you determine the best treatment option for you!
Why should I go and see a Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating) specialist?
Hyperhidrosis treatment is an area of expertise, and proper diagnosis is required to ensure that you receive the most appropriate treatment.
Click here to find a hyperhidrosis nearby!
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