How Hyperhidrosis is Treated: Controlling Excessive Sweating

By Dr. David Nieves

We recently reviewed a serious condition affecting nearly 3% of the population—excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis. This disorder affects individuals who sweat more than the body would normally need to maintain optimal temperature—in some cases, even four or five times more than the normal amount of sweating. There are a variety of treatments for hyperhidrosis. Let’s take a closer look at the successful treatment methods to help you determine what might be right for you if you suspect you might have this disorder.

Finding a Treatment that is Right for You

The role of a dermatologist is important in this treatment since they have to be accurate in gauging the severity of the condition. There are surgical (for extreme cases) and non-surgical treatments (injections, topical treatments and pills). Many people are alleviated by using the prescription topical treatment Drysol. For individuals who do not respond to this treatment, options include BOTOX® injections, oral medication and tapwater iontophoresis.

BOTOX is FDA-approved for the treatment of focal primary hyperhidrosis and is covered by most insurance. Treatment with BOTOX is a five-minute in-office procedure and usually provides significant symptom relief for 4-6 months. Tapwater iontophoresis is a self-administered drug-free procedure in which a low-grade electric current leads to plugging of sweat glands and reduction of sweating. If patients are unresponsive to this treatment, or for people who decline these procedures, oral medication may provide relief as well.

Lifting the Burden of Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis is among the most satisfying conditions to treat. Patients have often been suffering for years, unaware that highly effective treatment is available and affordable. Untreated, hyperhidrosis casts a constant shadow that interferes with patients' most basic social interactions. After treatment, patients feel as if a huge burden has been lifted and feel "normal," often for the first time in years. Patients with hyperhidrosis are among Windsor Dermatology's most loyal patients because the treatment is quick, easy and helps them regain control of their lives.

As a leader in the treatment of severe sweating, Windsor Dermatology conducts clinical research for a pharmaceutical industry partner who is developing a new topical treatment to alleviate hyperhidrosis. To find out more about our clinical trial participation, please visit our website.