Hyperhidrosis Treatment

Hyperhidrosis is when your body sweats excessively without any apparent reason, leading to embarrassment, foul body odour, and social anxiety. Fortunately, it does not hold a serious threat to your health, still with some patience, tailored treatment can help you get rid of the overactive stimulation of the sweat glands.

What are the Causes of Hyperhidrosis? 

Hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, can be caused by various factors. The condition is generally classified into two types: primary hyperhidrosis and secondary hyperhidrosis.

Primary Hyperhidrosis

Primary hyperhidrosis usually affects body areas, such as the palms, soles, underarms, and face. Apparently, its exact cause is not determined yet, still medical experts believe it is the overactivity of sweat glands; a dysfunction in the nervous system or genetic factors. 

Secondary Hyperhidrosis

The two common causes of secondary hyperhidrosis include:

Medical Conditions 

• Endocrine disorders (e.g., hyperthyroidism, diabetes, menopause)
• Neurological disorders (e.g., Parkinson’s disease, stroke, spinal cord injuries)
• Infections (e.g., tuberculosis, HIV)
• Malignancies (e.g., lymphoma, carcinoid syndrome)
• Autoimmune disorders (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, lupus)
• Heart failure
• Anxiety disorders

Medications

• Antidepressants
• Antipsychotics
• Anticholinesterases (used to treat Alzheimer’s disease and myasthenia gravis)
• Beta-blockers
• Calcium channel blockers
• Opioids
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Apart from that, certain environmental factors, food, emotional and mood swings, and nicotine intake can also contribute to excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis). 

Signs and Symptoms of Hyperhidrosis

If you have hyperhidrosis, you may exhibit the following signs:

Visible sweating: You may see sweat droplets on your skin even without physical activity.

Disrupted routine activities: Excessive sweating may cause difficulty holding a pen and sweat dripping on paper or computer when you are working.

Soft, white, and peeling skin: This is usually the outcome when your skin remains wet for a long time.

Skin infections: The body area that sweats heavily is more likely to have skin infections. The most common examples are jock itch and athlete’s foot.

How to Diagnose Hyperhidrosis?

Diagnosing hyperhidrosis typically involves several steps, including gathering medical history, conducting a physical examination, and performing specialised tests. Here’s an overview of the process:

Medical History

The healthcare professional will ask about the patient’s symptoms, their onset, frequency, and severity. They may also inquire about any family history of excessive sweating and the impact of the condition on the patient’s daily life.

Physical Examination

The doctor will assess the areas affected by excessive sweating and look for any signs of an underlying medical condition that could be causing secondary hyperhidrosis.

Sweat Test

There are a few tests that can be used to diagnose hyperhidrosis and determine the severity of the condition. These include:

Starch-iodine Test

In this test, the doctor coats the affected area with a solution containing iodine. After the iodine dries, he applies starch powder. The combination of iodine and starch turns dark blue in the presence of sweat, allowing the healthcare provider to see the areas with excessive sweating.

Paper Test

In the paper test, the doctor places a special type of paper (such as filter paper) on the sweaty area to examine the amount of sweat the paper absorbs. Through this way, they determine the severity of the sweating.

After evaluating the results of the examination and tests, the healthcare professional can confirm the diagnosis of hyperhidrosis and recommend appropriate treatment options based on the severity and location of the excessive sweating.

Treatments for Hyperhidrosis in Dubai

A wide range of treatment options are available for hyperhidrosis treatment in Dubai. However, it all depends on the severity and location of the excessive sweating. The healthcare provider sometimes considers an individual’s preference if it is applicable. Here is a detailed overview of the treatment options:

Non-invasive Treatments

In the majority of cases, the patients opt for non-invasive treatments, such as:

Antiperspirants

Over-the-counter or prescription-strength antiperspirants containing aluminium salts can help reduce sweating. They are typically applied to the affected areas, such as the underarms, hands, feet, or face.

Iontophoresis

This treatment involves passing a mild electrical current through water to the affected areas (hands or feet). The process temporarily blocks the sweat glands, reducing sweat production. For optimal results, multiple sessions may be required. 

Oral Medications

Anticholinergic drugs, such as glycopyrrolate or oxybutynin, can help reduce sweating by blocking the action of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which stimulates sweat production.

Botox Injections

Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections can temporarily block the nerves that stimulate sweat production. The effects usually last for several months, after which the treatment can be repeated.

Minimally Invasive Treatments

Microwave Thermolysis (miraDry)

This treatment uses microwave energy to target and destroy sweat glands in the underarm area. It provides long-lasting results and is generally well-tolerated.

Laser Therapy

Lasers can be used to heat and destroy sweat glands, reducing excessive sweating. This treatment is usually performed under local anesthesia.

Surgical Treatments

Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy (ETS)

In this surgical procedure, the surgeon makes small incisions in the chest to cut or clamp the sympathetic nerves responsible for excessive sweating. ETS is usually reserved for severe cases of palmar hyperhidrosis (excessive hand sweating) when other treatments have failed.

Localized Sweat Gland Removal

In some cases, sweat glands can be surgically removed from the affected area, such as the underarms, to reduce excessive sweating. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia.

Other Alternatives

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), homoeopathy, and Unani Medicine are alternative solutions for hyperhidrosis, but these methods are not scientifically proven and can work sporadically. Some people use herbal remedies for hyperhidrosis to manage it. Herbal remedies, such as sage or witch hazel, have been used traditionally to manage excessive sweating. 

Whatever the case may be, more research is needed to establish the efficacy of all the mentioned above alternatives. And it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable treatment option based on individual circumstances and preferences.

Hyperhidrosis Treatment Cost in Dubai

The average starting price of Botox injections for hyperhidrosis is 3,500 AED. The final cost of the treatment will depend on the treatment area and the number of injections required.

Hyperhidrosis FAQs

Consult an Expert

Are you worried about your hyperhidrosis problem? You can control this annoying issue by consulting our highly qualified cosmetic surgeons at Euromed Clinic. You can book a consultation online by filling out the form below.

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