How is hyperhidrosis treated?

Hyperhidrosis is sweating that is greater than the body needs for cooling. It may affect the underarms, hands, feet, face or other areas, and can interfere with work, clothing, sleep or social contact. A clinician considers when sweating began, whether it occurs during rest, which areas are involved and whether a medicine or another health problem could be contributing.

Treatment aims to reduce sweat in a safe, practical way; it does not remove the body's need to regulate temperature. Skin that stays damp can become irritated, and moisture may contribute to problems such as Heat Rash or Intertrigo.

A clinician may begin with a Prescription Antiperspirant applied as directed to the affected skin. If topical care is not enough or is difficult to use, options can include Iontophoresis for selected hands or feet, Botox For Sweating in specific areas, or Microwave Sweat Gland Treatment for suitable underarm sweating.

Keep a brief record of triggers, body sites, clothing changes and treatments already tried. Apply products only as instructed, protect irritated skin, and discuss any tablets before taking them because some can affect the mouth, eyes, heart rate or heat tolerance.

Arrange a medical assessment if sweating is new, occurs during sleep, affects the whole body, or comes with fever, unexplained weight change, chest discomfort, breathlessness, fainting or a racing heartbeat. Seek prompt care for sudden heavy sweating with feeling very unwell. A clinician can check for an underlying cause before focusing on sweat reduction.

Ask which body areas and triggers suggest primary hyperhidrosis, whether a medicine or health condition could be contributing, which option fits your skin, and how to protect the treated area from irritation or excess heat.