Sweating is a normal function of the body. It is the body’s natural way of regulating its temperature. However, some people experience excessive sweating. This condition is known as hyperhidrosis, which causes people to perspire more than is necessary to regulate body temperature.

Sweating is a natural response to certain conditions, such as warm weather, physical activity, stress, and feelings of fear or anger. However, with hyperhidrosis, you sweat more than usual for no apparent reason. The underlying cause depends on which type of hyperhidrosis you have.

Hyperhidrosis disorder is a condition that results in excessive sweating. This sweating can occur in unusual situations, such as in cooler weather, or without any trigger at all. It can also be caused by other medical conditions, such as menopause.

Symptoms of excessive sweating

1. Excessive sweating that has occurred for at least six months without an apparent reason.
2. Sweat that occurs on both sides of your body in roughly the same amount.
3. Incidents of excessive sweating at least once a week.
4. Sweating that interferes with your daily activities (such as work or relationships).
5. Excessive sweating that began when you were younger than 25 years old.
6. Not sweating in your sleep.

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Treatment options for excessive sweating

There are several treatment options for excessive sweating.

1. Specialised antiperspirant

Your doctor might prescribe an antiperspirant containing aluminium chloride. This antiperspirant is stronger than those available over the counter and is often used to treat mild cases of hyperhidrosis.

2. Iontophoresis

This procedure uses a device that delivers low-level electrical currents while you’re submerged in water. The currents are often delivered to your hands, feet, or armpits to temporarily block your sweat glands.

3. Anticholinergic drugs

Anticholinergic drugs can provide relief for generalised sweating. These drugs, such as glycopyrrolate (Robinul), prevent acetylcholine from working. Acetylcholine is a chemical your body produces that helps stimulate your sweat glands.

These drugs take about two weeks to work and may cause side effects such as constipation and dizziness.

4. Botox (botulinum toxin)

Botox injections may be used to treat severe hyperhidrosis. They block the nerves that stimulate your sweat glands. You usually need several injections before this treatment becomes effective.

5.Surgery

If you only sweat in your armpits, surgery might be able to treat your condition. One procedure involves removing the sweat glands in your armpits. Another option is to have an endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy. This involves severing the nerves that carry messages to your sweat glands.

6. Home remedies

You can also try to reduce sweating using the following home remedies:

• Using over-the-counter antiperspirants on the affected area.
• Bathing daily to get rid of bacteria.
• Wearing shoes and socks made from natural materials.
• Letting your feet breathe.
• Changing your socks frequently.

It is important you pay attention to your health this new year. Sweating is normal, but if it becomes excessive, as in hyperhidrosis, you need to do something about it.

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