Sweating – we all do it, but some of us do it more than others. When it becomes a problem that can’t seem to be controlled, it could be that you have the medical condition hyperhidrosis (also known as ‘excessive sweating’). In this post, our expert skin doctors here at our skin clinic in Rickmansworth will talk through its causes and concerns, as well as possible treatments and even self-care.
What causes excessive sweating?
First, it helps to know that there are two types of hyperhidrosis. Primary hyperhidrosis is where there is no known cause, although it does run in families, and in most cases, begins in childhood. Secondary hyperhidrosis is where an underlying medical condition or medication is causing the symptoms. Some women also experience excessive sweating during the menopause.
Concerns
Those with excessive sweating may become anxious, embarrassed or withdrawn due to the condition, shunning social activities or even struggling with everyday tasks, such as using a computer keyboard or driving a car. Hyperhidrosis can also negatively affect an individual’s confidence and mental health.
Did you know?: According to The Center for Hyperhidrosis, the average human sweats approximately 278 gallons of sweat every year!
Treatment for hyperhidrosis
At our Rickmansworth skin clinic, our skin doctors can offer effective hyperhidrosis treatment through wrinkle relaxing injections. These help block the signals that cause the sweat glands to produce sweat, leaving you feeling more dry and comfortable. Treatment can last several months and improve your self-esteem and quality of life.
Self-care
Our skin doctor also recommend some steps to try at home, from changing your skincare products to the clothes you wear (for instance, switching to lighter and natural materials, such as cotton, or changing your footwear on a daily basis). Certain foods may also exacerbate the condition, so you may like to try and keep a food diary to see if there are any triggers or patterns. Finally, using an antiperspirant, as opposed to an everyday deodorant, could help you to better manage the symptoms.
Book with our skin doctors
At our Rickmansworth skin clinic, our team are highly adept at handling all types of concerns, including excessive sweating. We know how it can be an embarrassing, worrisome condition for many of our patients, but we will work hard to give you the treatments and knowledge to curb your hyperhidrosis both now and in the future.
To arrange a consultation with us, simply visit our contact page, where you can fill out a form, send us an email or give us a call at your convenience.