What are the treatment options for hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis is sweating that is excessive for the situation and may affect the underarms, palms, soles, face, or more than one area. A clinician asks when sweating occurs, whether it happens during sleep, which sites are involved, and whether another illness or medicine could be contributing. Treatment is selected according to the body area, skin condition, daily impact, and response to earlier options.

Prescription antiperspirant is applied to the affected skin and can be a starting option; correct timing and skin preparation help limit irritation. Iontophoresis uses a mild electrical current through water and is commonly considered for hands or feet. Botulinum toxin injections temporarily reduce nerve signals that activate sweat glands in treated areas. Microwave sweat gland treatment uses controlled energy to target underarm sweat glands. Keep a record of triggers, wetness, skin irritation, and activities affected so your clinician can judge the response.

Arrange an assessment if sweating is new, occurs at night, affects one side, or is accompanied by weight change, palpitations, tremor, fever, or weakness. Seek urgent care for sudden heavy sweating with chest pain, breathlessness, faintness, or confusion. A new pattern deserves evaluation before it is treated as primary hyperhidrosis.

Which body areas are suitable for each treatment? How can I apply prescription antiperspirant while reducing irritation? Would iontophoresis, injections, or microwave treatment fit my work and routine? Could a medicine or health condition be causing the sweating?