Understanding Excessive Sweating: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

It's natural to sweat after you've been active or dealing with extreme heat. However, there is such a thing as too much sweat, which happens if you have a condition known as hyperhidrosis. Dr. Barry Kuttner and Dr. Kathleen Herne are your local dermatologists at Integrated Dermatology, who can help treat your excessive sweating condition in West Palm Beach, FL.

What Causes Hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis refers to excessive sweating in any part of your body. For most people, it often occurs on the hands and armpits. It may even happen on the face and soles of the feet. Some people may inherit this condition, but overall it happens due to faulty nerve signals that make your sweat glands overreact.

There may also be other underlying conditions, like diabetes and menopause. Certain forms of cancer, thyroid issues, and other nervous system disorders can cause the sweat glands to flow more than normal. It may also result from an infection.

How Can I Prevent Excessive Sweating in West Palm Beach, FL?

Hyperhidrosis can be embarrassing for many people. However, there are many ways to manage this condition, especially if you visit your local dermatologist for assistance. In addition to medical intervention, you can make some lifestyle adjustments, such as wearing more breathable fabric to enable better air circulation and reduce sweat buildup. Use antiperspirant on any part of your body likely to sweat. Staying hydrated can regulate your body temperature and help reduce overactive sweat glands. You may also have to adjust your diet, as caffeine alcohol and spicy foods can trigger this condition. 

Many people begin sweating when under stress. Therefore, it may be a good time to find coping mechanisms such as yoga, meditation, mindfulness, and deep breathing to help get you through stressful situations. It is easier to handle this condition when at a more normal weight, so weight management is essential.

How Can a Doctor Help?

Dr. Kuttner and Dr. Herne can assist in relieving this condition. Many dermatologists use Botox for such patients. Botox blocks the nerves that trigger your sweat glands. The results can last for several months before you need another session. Oral medication can also block those nerves. Topical prescription creams and wipes can provide relief. Doctors may give you a prescription antiperspirant with aluminum chloride to apply before bed and wash off in the morning. Eventually, you can scale back from daily usage to weekly once results kick in.

You no longer have to live with embarrassing sweat, thanks to the caring team at Integrated Dermatology. Dr. Kuttner and Dr. Herne have the right solution for your excessive sweating in West Palm Beach, FL. Call us at (561) 964-6664 to find out more.