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Skin Conditions

Axillary Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)

Hyperhidrosis is a condition that causes excessive sweating, which can significantly impact daily life and self-confidence. Complete Skin Specialists have options that may help to treat your condition.

Excessive sweating

About Axillary Hyperhidrosis

Axillary hyperhidrosis describes excessive underarm sweating. It is a relatively common problem affecting around 3% of the population. It often comes on as a teenager but may occur from childhood or later in life. It may improve later in life but tends to cause severe psychological distress in teenagers and young adults. Typically sufferers describe being severely limited in what clothes they can wear and have to replace clothing very frequently.

Palmar/plantar hyperhidrosis describes excessive sweating of the palms or soles of the feet. It too can cause significant distress to sufferers and affects social interactions, such as shaking hands; footwear choices due to slippery feet and ability to complete certain tasks such as writing and fine motor work.

Hyperhidrosis usually starts in childhood or adolescence but some people first experience it as adults. The impact of this condition is often underestimated it can affect work and social situations and may cause significant psychological distress. Fortunately, effective treatments are readily available.

In most cases, hyperhidrosis happens because the body’s sweat glands are overactive. The type of sweating linked to hyperhidrosis is different from the normal sweating that helps regulate body temperature. It is usually triggered by stress, anxiety, or emotions and commonly affects the underarms, hands, and feet.

In some cases, excessive sweating can be linked to an underlying medical condition (secondary hyperhidrosis), such as thyroid issues or hormonal imbalances. If sweating occurs with other symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fevers, or night sweats, further medical evaluation may be needed.

Hyperhidrosis often occurs:

  • During stressful situations or emotional distress
  • Constantly throughout the day, regardless of temperature or activity level
  • Without affecting sleep (most cases of hyperhidrosis do not cause night sweats)

If excessive sweating is accompanied by other symptoms, such as muscle or joint pain, headaches, or unexplained fevers, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.

There are several treatment options available, depending on the severity of sweating and the areas affected:

1. Topical treatments (applied directly to the skin)

  • Aluminium chloride hexahydrate (Driclor):This over-the-counter roll-on treatment helps reduce sweating but may cause skin irritation. It is best applied at night to dry skin after a shower.
  • Compounded glycopyrrolate cream:A prescription cream that may help in some cases. It is generally well tolerated but may not be effective for severe sweating.

2. Iontophoresis (electrical therapy for hands and feet)

  • A mild electrical current is passed through water to temporarily reduce sweating in the hands and feet.
  • This treatment is usually performed regularly and can be done at home with a personal device.
  • Some people find the treatment slightly uncomfortable, and ongoing use is required to maintain results.

3. Oral medications

  • Certain medications (such as oxybutynin or propantheline bromide) may help reduce sweating.
  • Side effects can include dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, and drowsiness, which may limit long-term use.

4. Surgery (rarely recommended)

  • Endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS)is a surgical procedure that disrupts nerve signals controlling sweating.
  • It carries a significant risk of compensatory sweating (new excessive sweating in other parts of the body), which happens in up to 50% of cases.
  • Due to these risks, surgery is usually only considered in severe cases where other treatments have not been successful.

How to best treat Axillary Hyperhidrosis

Depending on where you’re at in your journey, you can book an appointment with our dermatology practice, or cosmetic practice.

Treatment options

Visit our Dermatology Practice

Depending on individual circumstances, treatment options may include:

  • Topical therapy – Driclor
  • Botulinum toxin injections
  • Iontophotesis
  • Medical therapy – anticholinergic medications
Location

39 Station Street, Sunbury VIC 3429

Treatment options

Visit our Cosmetic Practice

Depending on individual circumstances, treatment options may include Botulinum toxin injections.

Location

Building 1: 115 O’Shanassy Street, Sunbury VIC 3429

New patient to Complete Skin Specialists?

If you’re a new patient, you’ll be invited to attend an initial consult prior to your service to ensure it’s right for you.

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See your GP to obtain a referral

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Procedure

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