Excessive Sweating (Hyperhidrosis)

Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition that causes excessive sweating. Many people who have hyperhidrosis sweat from one or two areas of the body (Primary Hyperhidrosis). Most often, they sweat from their palms, feet, underarms, or head. While the rest of the body remains dry, one or two areas may drip with sweat. Generalized (Secondary) Hyperhidrosis is caused by a medical condition or medication side effect and causes sweating on larger areas of the body. This excessive sweating can interfere with everyday activities and can cause people to feel extremely anxious and embarrassed. Sweaty palms can make it difficult to turn a doorknob, use a computer, or shake a hand. Sweaty feet can cause problems with shoes, odor or lead to athlete’s foot or other infections. In addition, sweaty underarms often soaks through clothes and can lead to social insecurities and body odor problems.

Causes of Excessive Sweating

Certain nerves tell the body when to sweat. It is possible that these nerves overreact, causing excessive sweating.

Treatment of Excessive Sweating (Hyperhidrosis)

Treatment depends on the type of hyperhidrosis and where the excessive sweating occurs on the body. Treatment options include topical antiperspirants containing aluminum chloride, injectable botulinum toxin, iontophoresis, oral anticholinergic agents, and surgery.

Treatments We Offer Include:

Clinical-strength Antiperspirants: These usually have Aluminum Chloride 20% as the active ingredient. Antiperspirants work by plugging the sweat glands. It can be over-the-counter or by prescription (ie. Drysol).

Uses: Apply to underarms, hands, feet, or hairline

Botox® Therapeutic: Botulium toxin is frequently used to control hyperhidrosis(excessive sweating) of the axillae (armpits), palms and soles, and occasionally other parts of the body. About one person in 100 has a serious problem with excessive sweating in these areas. This usually starts in childhood or adolescence. This kind of excess sweating is caused by a reflex reaction of the nervous system and is beyond voluntary control. Half of patients report that after one Botox® Therapeutic treatment they are free of excessive sweating for more than 7 months in the axillae, and more than one third of patients are still free of excess sweating after one year. Because you continue to sweat normally in other areas, there is no concern about overheating.

Dr. Curcio is a member of the International Hyperhidrosis Society and treats physician peers, celebrities, and athletes, including NFL players on a routine basis.

Dr. Curcio specializes in Cosmetic and Laser Surgery. With her extensive experience, she can personalize a treatment regimen to help you attain the best possible result.

Make an appointment with Dr. Curcio to determine what treatment is best for you.