Sweating during stress, in hot weather, or while exercising is normal. But have you ever thought about why you sweat excessively under your armpits or on the soles of your feet, even when you feel calm? Excessive sweating is medically known as hyperhidrosis. It is often associated with the underarm area, but it can also affect other areas such as the palms of the hands and feet. Hyperhidrosis can occur for a number of reasons, one of the most common of which is genetics. The good news is that there are effective ways to get rid of this condition, thanks to advances in medicine and cosmetics. You can learn more about ways to treat excessive sweating through the Dalili Medical website. Read on to discover more details about hyperhidrosis and its treatment methods. Let's get started now!

What is excessive sweating?

 

Excessive sweating, also known as hyperhidrosis, is a condition in which excessive sweating is secreted from a specific area of ​​the body or from the entire body, even in the absence of high body temperature or stimulating factors such as exercise. This excessive sweating often occurs in areas such as the hands or feet.

When does sweating become a sign of a health problem?

 

If a person wakes up with cold sweats and wet pillows in the morning, there may be several possible causes, including:

1. All-over sweating that covers all parts of the body rather than being concentrated in specific areas such as the head, face, underarms, groin, hands or feet.

2. Uneven sweating, which occurs on only one side of the body.

3. Sweating accompanied by additional symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, increased thirst, increased urination, or coughing.

Excessive sweating can indicate thyroid problems, diabetes, infection, or even gout.

When you feel stressed, the large sweat glands in the armpits and groin area begin to secrete sweat.

Are treatments suitable for all age groups?

 

Treatments are suitable for both adults and teenagers who suffer from hyperhidrosis.

What vitamin is associated with sweating?

 

While occasional sweating is completely normal, excessive sweating can be annoying. Excessive sweating is often caused by mild head sweating, and vitamin D deficiency is one of the primary symptoms associated with it.

Types of Excessive Sweating

 

1. **Primary focal hyperhidrosis**: This type of excessive sweating occurs in specific areas such as the hands, feet, face, head, and underarms. It often begins in childhood, and about 30 to 50% of individuals who suffer from it show a family history of excessive sweating as one of the causes of this type.

2. **Secondary generalized hyperhidrosis**: This type is caused by certain medical conditions or as a side effect of some medications. It usually begins in adulthood, and is characterized by a person sweating all over the body or in just one area, and it may also occur during sleep.

3. **Zonal hyperhidrosis**: This type appears in a specific area, often on the face, hands, feet, or underarms. Also known as primary hyperhidrosis, its types include:

- **Axillary hyperhidrosis**: Sweating in this type is limited to the armpit area, as its name suggests.

**Cranial hyperhidrosis**: This type is characterized by excessive sweating in the head and face.

**Palmar-plantar hyperhidrosis**: This type is known to affect the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.

**Tasteful hyperhidrosis**: Also known as Frey syndrome, sweating increases in the face, chest, neck, or scalp after eating.

**Unilateral restricted hyperhidrosis**: This type of condition is of unknown cause, where the affected person suffers from excessive sweating on only one side of the body.

**Generalized hyperhidrosis**: This type affects the entire body, and is often a symptom of other medical conditions. It is also called secondary hyperhidrosis.

Does hyperhidrosis require surgery?

 

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to get rid of the symptoms of hyperhidrosis. Here are some surgical options available to treat this condition:

1. **MiraDry Treatment**: The MiraDry device is designed to permanently eliminate sweat cells and treat the problem of excessive sweating. This device relies on microwave technology to remove the cells responsible for sweating.

2. **Vacuum suction**: This procedure aims to remove the sweat glands from the patient's body to get rid of the symptoms of hyperhidrosis. Doctors usually resort to this option if other treatments do not work.

3. **Sympathectomy**: This procedure is considered a nerve procedure, where the doctor cuts, pulls, or burns one of the spinal nerves to control the secretion of sweat. However, this procedure may sometimes lead to sweating in other areas of the body.

**How ​​can excessive sweating of the hands be treated?**

 

Anticholinergics can be used to relieve the symptoms of excessive sweating in the hands. Anti-anxiety medications can also be used in some cases, especially if the sweating is caused by anxiety or stress. In addition, surgical operations are an available option to get rid of the symptoms of sweaty hands, as they include removing the sweat glands from the hand area or performing a sympathetic cut of the nerves responsible for the secretion of sweat in the hand.

**How ​​long do Botox injections last for excessive sweating?**

 

The effects of Botox (botulinum toxin type A) injections typically last for an average of 6 to 9 months. However, repeated treatments are required to maintain results and prevent the condition from returning. Depending on the individual’s needs, re-treatment may be necessary at least 4 to 6 months after the first session.
You will notice the results of Botox injections under the armpits 14 to 15 days after starting treatment, and these results can last for more than four months. In addition,Results last longer in some patients, up to 12 months between treatment sessions. Although Botox injections can be painful, this treatment still has a high patient satisfaction rate.

**What causes hyperhidrosis?**

 

**Eating certain foods:** Hyperhidrosis may be caused by consuming certain foods or drinks, such as coffee, chocolate, spices, peanut butter, and foods rich in citric acid.

**Malignant tumors:** Some types of malignant tumors or cancers, such as Hodgkin's lymphoma, can cause hyperhidrosis.

**Infections:** A person may experience excessive sweating as a result of exposure to infections, whether severe or mild, and sweating is often the only symptom resulting from infection.

**Metabolic diseases:** Some metabolic diseases, such as diabetes, hyperthyroidism, pheochromocytoma, and pituitary gland diseases, can sometimes lead to hyperhidrosis.

**High blood pressure:** High blood pressure can be caused by taking certain medications or a medical condition, and it is one of the causes of excessive sweating. Excessive sweating in this case can be treated by controlling blood pressure.

Congestive heart failure: Excessive sweating is a common symptom in children with congestive heart failure, and is often accompanied by increased breathing rate and feeling tired during breastfeeding.

Should you see a doctor when you notice excessive sweating?

 

A person should consult a doctor immediately if excessive sweating is accompanied by any of the following conditions:

- Weight loss with heavy sweating.
- Symptoms of excessive sweating appear mainly during sleep.
- Fever, chest pain, in addition to shortness of breath and increased heart rate.
- Feeling pain or pressure in the chest area with sweating.
- Noticing the symptoms of excessive sweating without an obvious cause.

**How ​​to choose the right deodorant for you?**

 

Deodorants are available in many types and forms, including creams, sprays, and gels that come with a roller.

Gel lotions leave a moist layer on the skin, which can sometimes cause discomfort. While solid lotions leave a layer that can affect a person's movement. Spray usually provides a better effect and lasts longer.

It is important to read the ingredients of the deodorant carefully. If the skin is allergic to any of the ingredients, it should be avoided unless you consult a specialist doctor.

When choosing a deodorant, you should consider your skin type, especially if it is sensitive. It is preferable to choose a deodorant free of aluminum salt, as it may cause skin irritation.

If there is an allergy to alcohol or dry skin, it is preferable to choose a deodorant free of alcohol and its derivatives.

It is advisable to choose a deodorant that contains ingredients that give it long-lasting effectiveness, especially if the amount of sweating is large or if the person needs to spend a long time outside the home in hot weather.

What are the complications of excessive sweating?

 

Excessive sweating can lead to a variety of social, emotional and physical complications. Among these complications are:

**Loss of self-confidence and social isolation:** Excessive sweating negatively affects a person’s self-esteem, which may lead individuals to avoid social interactions and reduce social activities, leading to a feeling of isolation due to constant moisture on the skin, wet clothes, and unpleasant odor.

**Emotional problems:** Individuals with hyperhidrosis may feel negative about themselves, which may lead to emotional problems such as depression. Contributing factors include anxiety about appearance, feeling uncomfortable in public, and psychological stress.

**Impact on work and social life:** Hyperhidrosis can cause challenges in the work environment and social interactions. Situations such as shaking hands or work requirements such as giving presentations may be negatively affected as a result of this condition.

**Skin problems:** The risk of skin irritation and infection increases in areas that are constantly exposed to moisture. These skin problems can negatively affect the skin health of individuals with excessive sweating.
**Odor issues:** Excessive sweating can lead to increased odors, as it contributes to the proliferation of bacteria and fungi. This can negatively affect self-confidence and make social interactions more difficult.

**Limited clothing choices:** Excessive sweating can cause clothes to become wet frequently, limiting clothing options and making people feel uncomfortable.

**Physical discomfort:** Constant moisture on the skin can cause physical discomfort, such as skin irritation and itching.

### Treatment for excessive underarm sweating

 

Treatment for excessive underarm sweating, also known as axillary hyperhidrosis, includes a variety of options, the most prominent of which are:

#### Antiperspirants

 

Antiperspirants are the first line of defense against excessive underarm sweating. These preparations are available topically and in different concentrations, ranging from regular over-the-counter products to clinically proven effective products, as well as prescription antiperspirants.

Most doctors recommend starting with over-the-counter products, and if these products don’t provide the desired relief, you can move on to stronger options.

Most antiperspirants contain 1% or 2% aluminum salts, which work to reduce sweat production by stimulating the blockage of sweat glands. When using antiperspirants, be sure to apply them before bed on completely dry skin to avoid any irritation.

**miraDry**

MiraDry is an innovative way to treat excessive underarm sweating, and it has been approved by the FDAAmerican in January 2011. This technique shows success in reducing excessive sweating under the armpits for more than 90% of patients after 12 months of treatment, with a sweat reduction rate of 82%. However, this technique cannot be used to treat excessive sweating in other areas of the body. miraDry relies on microwave technology or thermal energy to permanently change or destroy the sweat glands under the armpits, preventing their growth again.

**Botox injections**

Botox injections are used as an alternative option if antiperspirants do not achieve the desired results, or if miraDry is not possible. The specialist doctor injects Botox into the underarm area to significantly reduce sweating, as these injections can lead to a reduction in sweating by more than 50% for up to 201 days (about 7 months) in some people, and may continue for more than a year in others. The report indicates that 81% of individuals experienced a 50% reduction in sweating.

Botox, also known as botulinum toxin A, is a neurotoxin that is injected into the dermis layer of the skin in areas of excessive sweating. Botox works to reduce excessive sweating by disabling the nerves responsible for stimulating the sweat glands or preventing the release of chemicals that activate these glands. Some people may feel a slight pain during the injection process, and some may complain about the cost of the treatment, but most people are very satisfied with the results, which usually last for 6 to 9 months.

As for iontophoresis treatment, it is a technique that may benefit people who suffer from excessive sweating in the hands and feet. It can also be used to treat the armpit area, but its effectiveness is less in this case.

Iontophoresis involves applying a low electrical current through water or a wet pad to treat some skin conditions, as it is believed to help block the activity of the sweat glands.
You can use a low electrical current to treat your hands and feet by placing them in a tub filled with water. A wet pad is placed over each armpit, and the electrical current is passed through the pad to treat the armpit if necessary.

The electric current may cause mild discomfort and skin irritation during treatment, but it is not very uncomfortable.

**Botulinum toxin injections**

 

Botulinum toxin can be injected into the skin to treat hyperhidrosis. When nerve signals from the brain to the sweat glands are blocked, sweating is significantly reduced.

At least 15 injections are given to the affected areas of the body, such as the armpits, hands, and feet. The treatment usually takes 30 to 45 minutes to complete.

The treatment can be repeated as needed after several months of the injections wearing off.

**Medications to treat excessive sweating**

 

Topical medications are the first choice for patients with mild to moderate focal hyperhidrosis. The most prominent of these medications is aluminum chloride hexahydrate, which is the mainstay of treatment for mild to moderate hyperhidrosis. This medication is available as an antiperspirant in concentrations ranging from 15% to 25%, and works by affecting the cells responsible for producing sweat. It should be used daily, but it should be noted that it may cause sensitivity or irritation in the underarm area, in which case it should be stopped immediately.

As for medications taken orally to treat excessive sweating, they include anticholinergics, which work to inhibit the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is responsible for activating the sweat glands.

Anticholinergics are used to treat certain types of hyperhidrosis, including:

- Excessive sweating of the face.
- Generalized hyperhidrosis (sweating of the entire body).
- Sweating that does not respond to other treatments, such as antiperspirants and Botox.

Other medications used to treat excessive sweating include...
Amitriptyline, clonazepam, propranolol, diltiazem, gabapentin, and indomethacin are medications used to treat generalized hyperhidrosis. However, more studies are still needed to confirm their effectiveness in treating focal hyperhidrosis.

**Treatment of excessive sweating using iontophoresis**

 

Iontophoresis is an effective technique for treating excessive sweating. This method involves placing the hands or feet in a bowl of shallow water for 20 to 30 minutes, where a low electric current is passed through the water. This procedure is believed to help reduce sweating by preventing sweat from reaching the surface of the skin, or that the charged molecules in the water impede the secretion of the sweat glands. The patient needs to repeat this treatment several times a week until the sweating stops.

However, iontophoresis may be associated with some side effects such as redness, dryness, and peeling. The effect of the treatment usually lasts for 2 to 4 weeks, and some individuals may need 6 to 10 sessions to achieve the desired results.

Although iontophoresis is considered a safe procedure, it is advised to avoid it if you are pregnant, as well as if you have pacemakers, metal implants (such as joint replacements), or if you have cardiovascular problems, or epilepsy.

**Surgical Treatment for Excessive Sweating**

 

Surgical treatment for excessive sweating is the last resort for people with severe hyperhidrosis who have not had success with other treatments. During surgery, the doctor may cut, scrape, or suction the sweat glands.

Another surgical option is endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS), where the surgeon makes very small incisions and then cuts the nerves that activate the sweat glands in the armpit area. This treatment is very effective, but it is irreversible, meaning that you cannot return to normal after the nerves are cut. The procedure may also leave scars.It lasts for a long time. It is also important to consider compensatory sweating as a side effect of the procedure, as stopping sweating in a certain area may lead to increased sweating in other areas of the body.

In addition, the surgery may cause some other side effects such as phantom sweating, nerve pain, pneumothorax, and other side effects that should be discussed with the doctor.

**Laser treatment for hyperhidrosis**

 

Laser can be used as an effective method for treating hyperhidrosis, as a narrow laser beam is directed to target specific areas of the body without affecting the surrounding tissues. This precision makes laser treatment more effective compared to other treatment options. In addition, the heat of the laser contributes to reducing the risk of infection and closing blood vessels, which helps reduce bleeding. As a result, recovery is faster compared to traditional methods. Laser treatment can be performed in the doctor's office as an outpatient procedure, allowing the patient to return home or work shortly after the session is over. However, some side effects may appear such as swelling, bruising, and a feeling of numbness, which usually disappear within about two weeks.

**Hyperhidrosis Treatment with Herbs and Natural Methods**

 

Herbs used to treat excessive sweating include:

- Herbal teas such as sage, chamomile, and others.
- Valerian roots.
- St. John’s Wort.

However, it should be noted that there is not enough information about the safety and effectiveness of many of these herbs in treating hyperhidrosis. Therefore, it is necessary to consult a doctor before using any type of herbal or natural treatment.

In addition, there are other natural methods that can be used to treat excessive sweating, including:

- **Baking soda**: The alkaline properties of baking soda help reduce body odor and treat excessive sweating. This can be tried by mixing baking soda with water and applying it topically to the skin under the armpit. However, a sensitivity test should be performed on a small area of ​​​​the skin to ensure that there is no allergic reaction before using baking soda or any other topical treatment.

**How ​​to use:** First, put the shea butter in a water bath, then add the coconut oil and mix the ingredients well. Next, gradually add baking soda, then add cornstarch after you're done. You can also add some essential oils or your favorite fragrance.

If you don't like the smell of shea butter, you can increase the amount of coconut oil and exclude shea butter, following the same steps.

When the mixture cools, you can put it in the freezer and use it before going out.

To avoid stains on clothes, it is recommended to apply it for a few minutes before going out, then put on clothes.

**Natural Deodorant with Lemon**

Lemon is considered one of the natural plants that are effective in eliminating microbes, including bacteria that cause body odor. This is due to its citric acid content, which has antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial properties. In addition, lemon contains magnesium, calcium, vitamin C and potassium, which are antioxidants that help remove dead cells from the surface of the skin, giving the skin freshness and renewal. Lemon also helps maintain the acidity balance of the skin, which reduces the possibility of irritation, and may have a bleaching effect on dark areas such as the underarm area.

To use lemon as a deodorant, you can squeeze a lemon and apply it to the underarm area, then leave it to dry.

You can also prepare a lemon deodorant in the following way:

- Mix half a teaspoon of baking soda with a slice of lemon, then wait for a while, and apply the mixture to the armpits every morning after showering to get rid of the smell of sweat.

- Add a little coconut oil to a few drops of lemon juice, then apply the mixture under the armpits every morning and leave it until it dries and is completely absorbed by the body

You can add lemon juice to half a tablespoon of vinegar in a spray bottle containing 3-4 tablespoons of water, then spray this mixture under the armpits before going out, and leave it to dry completely before putting on clothes.

You can also use a neem leaf infusion, which is considered one of the best plants due to its antiseptic properties. The solution is left to cool completely, then filled in a spray bottle and used before going out under the armpits. Mint leaves can also be added to the neem infusion to get a fresh and beautiful scent.

In addition, aloe vera juice can be mixed with lemon juice and used as a deodorant, due to the benefits of aloe vera juice for the skin and its freshness.

1. **Green tea**

Drinking green tea helps reduce excessive facial sweating, thanks to its high content of antioxidants that help expel toxins from the body, which leads to reducing sweat secretion. Green tea also contains magnesium, which helps contract sweat glands and maintain the ideal body temperature.

2. **Sage**

Sage is an effective treatment for controlling excessive facial sweating, as consuming it helps narrow the sweat glands due to its tannic acid content. In addition, sage helps reduce the growth of bacteria thanks to its antibacterial properties.

3. Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass contains a group of vitamins that help reduce excessive sweating, including: Vitamin C, Vitamin B12, and Vitamin B6.

4. Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is considered one of the effective natural herbs in reducing excessive sweating, as it works as an astringent and helps combat sweating.

5. Chinese Schisandra

Schisandra is also known as Chinese lemongrass, and plays a role in reducing excessive facial sweating.

6. Black Cohosh

Black Cohosh is used to relieve symptoms of menopause, including reducing excessive sweating.

7. Valeriann)

Also known as Valerian root or Valerian herb, it is used as an effective natural remedy to relieve the symptoms of excessive facial sweating.

8. Perforate St John's wort

Also known as St John's wort, Perforate St John's wort is used to treat excessive sweating resulting from hormonal changes or anxiety.

1. Natural vinegar

Natural vinegar is an effective natural means to relieve excessive facial sweating, as it works to eliminate bacteria, gently dry the skin, and close the pores.

2. Tomato juice

Tomato juice helps lower the body's internal temperature and shrink the size of the pores, which helps reduce and slow down excessive sweating.

3. Cornstarch and baking soda

Both cornstarch and baking soda help reduce and control excessive facial sweating, thanks to their ability to absorb moisture.

4. Essential Oils

A group of essential oils help treat excessive facial sweating, as they contain antibacterial properties, and they also contribute to narrowing the skin pores.

The most prominent oils used in this context are: tea tree oil and coconut oil.