Hyperhydrosis
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Understanding Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)
At Skinaite Clinic, we understand how much excessive sweating can affect not only your comfort but also your confidence and quality of life. We’re here to walk you through everything you need to know about Hyperhidrosis—with compassion, clarity, and care.
What is Hyperhidrosis?
Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition where the body produces more sweat than is actually needed to regulate temperature. While sweating is completely natural and helps cool the body, people with hyperhidrosis experience overactive sweat glands—leading to persistent and often unpredictable sweating.
This can occur in certain areas such as the underarms, palms, soles, face, or even across the entire body. For many, it’s not just a physical issue—it can affect everyday activities, social interactions, and emotional well-being.
At Skinaite, we want you to know: You’re not alone, and effective treatment options are available.
Types of Hyperhidrosis
There are two main forms of this condition, and understanding the type you have is key to selecting the most effective treatment:
1. Primary (Focal) Hyperhidrosis
This is the more common form and is usually not linked to any medical illness.
- Onset: Often begins in childhood or teenage years
- Common areas affected:
- Palms of the hands
- Soles of the feet
- Underarms (armpits)
- Face or scalp
- Sweating pattern: Typically symmetrical (both hands, both feet, etc.)
- Triggers: Emotional stress, heat, or sometimes it just happens without a clear reason
2. Secondary (Generalized) Hyperhidrosis
This form is less common and typically starts in adulthood. It is usually a symptom of another underlying condition or a side effect of certain medications.
- Sweating pattern: More generalized or widespread
- Common triggers and causes:
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Menopause (hot flashes)
- Infections
- Thyroid imbalances (like hyperthyroidism)
- Neurological conditions
- Certain medications (e.g., antidepressants, painkillers)
At Skinaite, we take time to carefully assess which type you may have to ensure your treatment plan is truly customized.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis doesn’t just mean “a little more sweat.” Symptoms can include:
- Noticeable sweating even in cool temperatures or while resting
- Wet palms or soles, often making it hard to grip or walk comfortably
- Clothing that becomes soaked through, especially around the underarms
- Skin irritation, maceration, or frequent fungal infections
- Avoidance of handshakes, social gatherings, or physical closeness due to embarrassment
- Night sweats, especially common in secondary hyperhidrosis
We approach each symptom with sensitivity and understanding, ensuring you feel heard and supported.
Causes of Hyperhidrosis
Primary Hyperhidrosis:
- Exact cause is not fully known
- Likely due to overactivity of nerves that stimulate sweat glands
- Often runs in families, suggesting a genetic component
Secondary Hyperhidrosis:
- Caused by underlying health conditions or medications
- Possible causes include:
- Endocrine disorders (thyroid issues, diabetes)
- Infections (e.g., tuberculosis, HIV)
- Neurological issues (e.g., Parkinson’s)
- Hormonal shifts (e.g., menopause)
- Medications (like antidepressants, certain painkillers)
How We Diagnose Hyperhidrosis at Skinaite Clinic
At Skinaite Clinic, we follow a step-by-step approach to ensure accurate diagnosis and your complete comfort:
- Detailed Medical History
• We ask about the specific areas affected and how long the sweating has been occurring.
• We discuss any known triggers like heat, stress, or physical activity.
• Family history is reviewed to see if the condition runs in the family.
• We check for associated symptoms or any possible underlying medical conditions. - Physical Examination
• We visually assess the areas of excessive sweating.
• Skin health is examined to rule out infections or irritation.
• We observe the distribution and pattern of sweating.
• This helps determine whether the condition is primary or secondary. - Sweat Tests (if needed)
• Starch-Iodine Test – A color change helps identify sweating zones clearly.
• Gravimetric Test – Sweat volume is measured using absorbent paper.
• Blood/Urine Tests – Conducted if there’s a possibility of an underlying health issue.
Tests are done gently and only when necessary to avoid discomfort.
Treatment Options for Hyperhidrosis
Our goal is to offer personalized care based on the severity of your condition and your preferences. Here are the options we may discuss together:
1. Lifestyle & At-Home Care
- Daily hygiene with antibacterial cleansers
- Light, breathable cotton clothing
- Clinical-strength antiperspirants (containing aluminum chloride)
- Identifying and avoiding personal triggers like stress, caffeine, or spicy food
2. Medical Therapies
- Prescription Antiperspirants: More potent, used mostly at night
- Oral Medications (Anticholinergics): Reduce sweat gland activity (may have side effects)
- Iontophoresis: Mild electrical current passed through water to treat palms/soles
- Botox Injections: Temporarily block sweat signals—especially effective for underarms, palms, feet (lasts 4–6 months)
- MiraDry (Microwave Therapy): Permanently reduces underarm sweating by destroying sweat glands
- Laser Treatments: Minimally invasive destruction of sweat glands
3. Surgical Solutions (for severe cases)
- Surgical removal of underarm sweat glands
Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy (ETS): Targets nerve pathways (mainly for hand sweating); however, it may cause sweating elsewhere as compensation
Possible Complications of Untreated Hyperhidrosis
If left unmanaged, hyperhidrosis may lead to:
- Frequent skin infections (fungal or bacterial)
- Chronic irritation or peeling skin
- Social anxiety, withdrawal, or even depression
- Work-related challenges, especially in roles involving handwork or public interaction
- Reduced self-esteem and confidence
At Skinaite, we believe that quality of life matters. You deserve comfort and confidence in your skin.
Your Care is Our Priority at Skinaite
At Skinaite Clinic, we provide a safe, judgment-free space to discuss your concerns. Every treatment plan is tailored with empathy and expertise, and we walk with you every step of the way.
FAQ’s
It’s more common than you might think—about 2% to 3% of people worldwide experience hyperhidrosis. Sadly, many suffer in silence due to embarrassment or the belief that it’s just “normal.”
- Primary Hyperhidrosis: While not permanently curable, it is very manageable with the right approach.
- Secondary Hyperhidrosis: Treating the underlying condition often brings complete relief.
Long-term results are absolutely possible, especially with advanced treatments like Botox, MiraDry, and more.
- Anyone, at any age, can be affected
- Primary type often begins early (in childhood or adolescence)
- Secondary type tends to begin in adulthood, often alongside another condition
Family history plays a strong role in primary hyperhidrosis
No, it’s not life-threatening—but it can deeply affect your lifestyle and emotional well-being.
Absolutely. Anxiety, nervousness, or stress can make symptoms worse.
Sometimes symptoms ease with age—but in most cases, medical management is needed.
It varies—Botox, iontophoresis, and MiraDry are all great options. We’ll help choose what suits you best.
Not always. Night sweats often suggest secondary hyperhidrosis—which requires further medical evaluation.
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