Skin ExpertsSkin ConditionsExcessive Sweating

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Learn more about the treatment options available for excessive sweating

Excessive Sweating

Excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis, is a common disorder affecting many people. While normal sweating regulates body temperature, people suffering from hyperhidrosis exhibit sweating that exceeds the body’s need for thermal regulation. The disorder is an inherited problem. Hyperhidrosis typically manifests in four forms:

  • Palm sweating
  • Underarm sweating
  • Foot sweating
  • Facial Sweating
Women Excessive Sweating

What you need to know

Recent advances involving neuromodulators (Boxtox, Dysport, Xeomin) and microwave thermolysis (MiraDry) provide an effective way to alleviate excessive sweating problems.

Do's and Don'ts

Do...
  • Drink lots of water.
  • Exercise to help burn off fat and reduce normal sweating.
  • Bathe daily.
  • Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes.
  • Use socks when wearing close-fitting shoes.
  • Wax, rather than shave, underarm hair. 
Don't
  • Eat foods that can trigger sweating, such as spicy foods.

Why treat excessive sweating?

Excessive sweating is uncontrollable, embarrassing and not anticipated. People with hyperhidrosis never get used to it and continue to suffer throughout their lives. 

  • Physiological problems. Excessive sweating leads to cold and clammy skin, dehydration and skin infections.
  • Emotional problems. Sufferers are constantly aware of their condition and try to modify their lifestyle to accommodate it. This can cause issues both professionally and socially.
  • Psychological problems. Excessive sweating carries severe negative psychological consequences.
  • Clothing issues. Excessive sweat often stains and ruins clothing.

General questions to ask before the procedure

  1. Is a doctor on site?
  2. Is the doctor board-certified in dermatology or in another specialty with equivalent training and experience?
  3. Was my medical history taken?
  4. Was I given an initial evaluation to determine if the technique or procedure is appropriate for my skin type?
  5. Did the doctor show me before-and-after photos?

Questions to ask the dermatological surgeon

Excessive Sweating Questionaire

  1. Which excessive sweating treatment is the correct one for me?
  2. What is the estimated cost of the procedure?
  3. How long is one appointment?
  4. How often do I need to receive treatment for my condition?
  5. How far apart are the treatments?
  6. How long is the recovery time associated with my procedure?
  7. Do you have before-and-after patient images to help to prepare me for what to expect?
  8. How can I prepare for the treatment/procedure?
  9. Will someone walk me through the process before going in for the treatment?
  10. What are the common side effects or complications associated with the procedure?
  11. Will the treatment hurt?
  12. What are my pain management and anesthesia options?
  13. What should I expect after the procedure is performed (i.e., short-term and long-term effects; activity restrictions; expected recovery period)?
  14. Do you have before-and-after patient images to help to prepare me for what to expect?