What is hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis affects around 2 to 3% of the general population, yet it's a condition not many of us know much about. It causes excessive sweating, and while perspiration is a normal part of the body's temperature regulation, excessive sweating takes a toll on skin health, contributing to conditions like eczema, warts and painful rashes.

Types of hyperhidrosis

There are two categories. Primary hyperhidrosis typically emerges in childhood or adolescence with no known cause, and tends to affect the armpits, palms, soles of the feet, and occasionally the face and scalp. Stress and warm weather often make it worse. Secondary hyperhidrosis accompanies an underlying cause: diabetes, menopause, obesity, thyroid dysfunction, nerve damage, certain medications, or, rarely, tumours.

Getting help

Symptoms occasionally settle on their own, but professional guidance gets far better results. Treatment ranges from simple measures through to prescription antiperspirants and oral medicines, iontophoresis, injectable treatments, and, for severe cases, surgical options. A Dermatologist can assess which is right for your situation.