Excessive Sweating

Hyperhidrosis, is a medical condition that causes excessive sweating. The word “hyperhidrosis” (hi-purr-hi-DROE-sis) means too much (hyper) sweating (hidrosis).

Many people who have hyperhidrosis sweat from one or two areas of the body. Most often, they sweat from their palms, feet, underarms, or head. While the rest of the body remains dry, one or two areas may drip with sweat.

Fortunately, the dermatology team at The Dermatology Center of Worcester, specializes in treating hyperhidrosis.

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What is excessive sweating?

Excessive sweating happens when a person sweats more than is necessary. Yes, it’s necessary to sweat. Sweating cools the body, which prevents us from overheating. People who have hyperhidrosis, however, sweat when the body does not need cooling. Below are some signs and symptoms of excessive sweating:

• Visible sweating: When you are not exerting yourself, do you often see beads of sweat on your skin or have sweat-soaked clothing? Do you sweat when you’re sitting?

• Sweating interferes with everyday activities: Does sweating cause difficulty holding a pen, walking, or turning a doorknob? Does sweat drip heavily on to your papers or computer?

• Skin turns soft, white, and peels in certain areas: Does your skin stay wet for long periods?

• Skin infections: Do you get frequent skin infections on the parts of your body that sweat heavily? Athlete’s foot and jock itch are common skin infections.

There are two types of hyperhidrosis that cause your sweat glands to work overtime:

Focal hyperhidrosis

Focal hyperhidrosis runs in families and happens because of a mutation in your genes. The sweating mostly happens in areas like your armpits, palms, the soles of your feet, and your head. 

Generalized hyperhidrosis

Generalized hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating from other causes, such as certain medications or medical disorders. It isn’t genetic, and your dermatologist can help you identify the underlying cause. 

What causes my excessive sweating?

There are many circumstances and factors that trigger your excessive sweating. While the main causes differ between focal and generalized hyperhidrosis, the two types share a few commonalities. 

You might sweat excessively in response to:

• Heat and humidity
• Exercise
• Infections
• Spinal cord injuries
• Anxiety
• Certain foods
• Menopause

In addition to the sweating itself, you might experience body odor and itching because of hyperhidrosis. In particularly sweaty areas such as your armpits, you might notice some skin changes like discoloration or cracks. 

How can I get rid of excessive sweating?

The team at The Dermatology Center of Worcester provides professional hyperhidrosis treatment to help you manage excessive sweating. Often, a few easy lifestyle changes are enough to manage excessive sweating. 

If changing your lifestyle alone isn’t effectively eliminating excessive sweating, there are other multiple options that the team at The Dermatology Center of Worcester can offer. 

Get effective care for your excessive sweating today by scheduling an appointment over the phone or online at The Dermatology Center of Worcester today.

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