How Do You Treat Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)?

Hyperhidrosis is a disorder that causes excessive sweating. There may be no trigger at all and it can occur in uncommon circumstances, such as during cooler temperatures. Menopause or hyperthyroidism are two of the medical conditions that can contribute to it. Most people who are affected feel uncomfortable. However, a number of therapeutic treatments can offer some comfort. It's worth noting that excessive sweating isn't something to be ashamed of. Keep reading to find out what causes excessive sweating.

What health problem causes excessive sweating?

Sweating is a normal reaction to a variety of situations, including hot weather, strenuous exertion, stress, and emotions of fear or rage. You sweat more often than normal and for no apparent cause if you have hyperhidrosis. Depending on the type of hyperhidrosis you have, the underlying reason may vary.

Primary focal hyperhidrosis

Your face, hands, underarms, feet, and head are the key areas where you sweat. Typically, it begins in childhood. Between 30 and 50 percent of those with this type have a background of excessive sweating in their families.

Secondary generalised hyperhidrosis

Sweating brought on by a health condition or as a side effect of some medications is known as secondary generalised hyperhidrosis. Typically, it begins in maturity. You may experience this type of sweating all over your body or just in one location. Additionally, you might sweat a lot while you're asleep.

The following conditions can lead to this type:

- Heart condition
- Cancer
- Hyperthyroidism
- Disorders of the adrenal gland
- Stroke
- Menopause
- Parkinson's disease
- Spinal cord damage
- Lung disease
- Infectious illnesses like HIV or TB

Additionally, a number of prescription and OTC medications can result in hyperhidrosis. Sweating is frequently an unusual side effect that few people experience. But excessive sweating is a typical adverse reaction to antidepressants like:

- Desipramine (Norpramin)
- Protriptyline
- Nortriptyline (Pamelor)

Excessive sweating can also occur in people who take zinc as a dietary supplement or pilocarpine for dry mouth.

When should I be worried about excessive sweating?

Excessive sweating can also be a sign of other, very dangerous conditions. Call your doctor straight away if you sweat:

- And lose weight
- Mainly when you are asleep
- And experience fever, chest pain, breathlessness, and a fast heartbeat
- And have chest pain or a pressure-like sensation in the chest
- Excessively without any explanation

How can I stop excessive sweating?

To help combat excessive sweating, try to wear:

- Loose-fitting attire to reduce sweat stains
- Socks that repel moisture, and if at all feasible, change your socks at least twice per day
- New shoes every day and try to wear leather shoes

How can a pharmacist help with excessive sweating?

In case you are sweating excessively, consult a pharmacist. Without a prescription, you can buy things like:

- More powerful antiperspirants rather than deodorant
- Sweat or armpit shields to keep your clothing clean
- Powders for foot sweat
- Alternatives to soap that are kinder to your skin

How do you treat severe excessive sweating?

If nothing seems to be alleviating your sweating and there isn't a clear cause, you can be referred to a professional (dermatologist).

They might suggest the following other therapies for you to try:

- Using antiperspirant medications
- Using a moist pad or a modest electric current to treat the affected regions (iontophoresis)
- Receiving injections of botox to treat underarm sweating (this may not be available through the NHS)
- Surgical procedures, such as the removal of sweat glands

Any treatment you may require will depend on the causes of your sweating. Shop online at Chemist.net today for the best medicine to treat excessive sweating.

 

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This blog post was written on behalf of Chemist.net by Pharmacy Mentor.