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Skin Conditions

Axillary Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)

Axillary hyperhidrosis refers to excessive sweating in the underarms. Medical treatment of hyperhidrosis can help to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Excessive sweating

What is axillary hyperhidrosis?

Axillary hyperhidrosis is characterised by excessive sweating in both armpits (axilla).

Sweating is a natural process to regulate body temperature, especially during exercise or hot weather.

But people with axillary hyperhidrosis may sweat heavily regardless of environmental temperature or physical exertion. It goes beyond what is physiologically necessary to regulate body temperature and can be embarrassing and inconvenient, especially if frequent clothing changes are required.

What causes hyperhidrosis?

The exact cause of primary hyperhidrosis is not fully understood, but it’s believed to result from overactivity in the sweat glands, triggered by a hyperactive sympathetic nervous system.

It typically begins in adolescence or early adulthood.

There are two main types of hyperhidrosis:

  • Primary hyperhidrosis is thought to have a genetic component, with up to one-third of patients reporting a family history.
  • Secondary hyperhidrosis is less common and may result from underlying conditions such as endocrine disorders, infections, or medications.

When excessive sweating occurs during sleep or is associated with other symptoms like weight loss or fatigue, further medical investigation is advised.

A clinician wearing black gloves marking a grid pattern under a patient’s arm with a white pencil in preparation for a hyperhidrosis treatment.
How many people suffer from hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis is more common than many realise. Studies suggest that approximately 3% of people experience some form of excessive sweating, with axillary hyperhidrosis being one of the most common types.

What are the symptoms of axillary hyperhidrosis?

Symptoms of axillary hyperhidrosis include:

  • Noticeable sweating in the underarms, even without physical exertion or heat
  • Frequent need to change clothing or use absorbent materials
  • Sweating that interferes with daily activities such as work or social engagements.
A patient sitting in a consultation room speaking with a healthcare professional.

Hyperhidrosis treatment

Treatment for axillary hyperhidrosis depends on the severity of symptoms and individual preferences.

Your treatment plan may include:

  • Prescription antiperspirants that temporarily block sweat glands
  • Nerve-blocking injections into the armpit, repeated every few months
  • Prescription medications.

All treatment options are discussed in detail during your consultation. Your Dermatologist will help you choose the most appropriate option for your condition.

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.

experience

Obtain a GP referral

See your GP for a referral so we can make an appointment

Attend a consultation

Attend a consultation

Meet with your Dermatologists for a thorough assessment of your concerns.

time

Tell us your concerns

You may be seeking help to:

  • Manage excessive sweating (underarms only)
  • Explore treatment options for hyperhidrosis
  • Assess treatment effectiveness

Commence treatment

Receive treatment

You have the option of receiving treatment on the same day as your consultation. Reception may confirm this when your consultation is made.