6 Popular Myths About Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, affects about 3% of the U.S. population. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis most commonly experience excessive sweating under their armpits, from the soles of their feet, or from the palms of their hands. Their sweating can ruin romantic relationships, impact work or academic performance, complicate business interactions, and damage self-esteem. Hyperhidrosis can even interfere with everyday tasks like gripping the steering wheel of a car, holding a pen, or dialing a cell phone.

Many people who suffer from hyperhidrosis, may not talk about it because they are embarrassed or ashamed. That could be why so many myths about the condition have been spread. As a plastic surgery office, we wanted to dispel some of the common myths about hyperhidrosis and give you the straight facts on effective treatment options.

MYTH #1: PEOPLE WHO SWEAT EXCESSIVELY ARE UNHEALTHY OR UNHYGIENIC.

Although neurologic disorders or other systemic diseases can sometimes cause hyperhidrosis, most cases occur in people who are otherwise healthy. And those who suffer from the condition aren’t dirty. In fact, just the opposite is true. They are likely to shower two or three times a day and meticulously wash their clothes because of the excessive sweating.

MYTH #2: THERE IS NO WAY TO CONTROL HYPERHIDROSIS

There is no “cure” for this condition, but there are several treatment options available. For example, Botox^®, which was originally created to reduce facial wrinkles, is now FDA-approved to treat excessive underarm sweating. One Botox treatment session may drastically reduce underarm sweating for up to 14 months.

Other treatment options may include:

• Prescription strength antiperspirants that contain aluminum chloride hexahydrate.
• Iontophoresis, a device that passes ionized tap water through theskin using direct electricity.
• Oralmedications.
• miraDry, a technique that uses microwave energy to kill sweat glands.
• Lasers that can destroy underarm sweat glands.
• Surgery to remove sweat glands may be considered as a last resort.
  

MYTH #3: DEODORANT CAN SOLVE THE PROBLEM.

Traditional deodorants simply mask body odor caused by sweating, but does not stop the sweating itself. At the very least you need an antiperspirant, which is designed to block sweat.

MYTH #4: PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS ARE THE ONLY SOLUTION.

Some may not seek treatment because they don’t want to be on a prescription medication. That’s understandable because prescription medications often come with adverse side effects. But as this article points out, there are plenty of other treatment options available.

MYTH #5: SURGERY IS THE IDEAL SOLUTION.

While there are many cases of hyperhidrosis sufferers finding relief after surgery to remove sweat glands, the International Hyperhidrosis Society recommends that surgery only be considered as a “last resort” after other treatment options have failed. That’s because surgically removing sweat glands could trigger side effects like irregular heartbeat, abnormally low blood pressure, heat intolerance, or excessive sweating on other areas of the body.

MYTH #6: WEARING LIGHTWEIGHT CLOTHING SOLVES THE PROBLEM.

It doesn’t hurt to try and wear lightweight clothing to combat sweating. But for most people who suffer from hyperhidrosis, sweating occurs regardless of what they are wearing, the temperature of their environment, or how physically active they are. It seems as though they are sweating for no reason at all.

If you suffer from hyperhidrosis, then it’s time to stop believing these common myths. There are solutions that are proven to provide relief. The best way to determine if Botox or another treatment option is right for you is to talk to a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Fodero.

Northeastern Plastic Surgery understands your desire for a beautiful, youthful looking body and facial appearance. We use the latest plastic surgery techniques to perform a variety of surgical procedures. Dr. Fodero and the staff are very friendly, helpful, and available to answer any questions you may have about the procedures we offer. We strive to ensure that your experience with us is positive. Please contact us today to learn more about the services we offer.