Hyperhidrosis
Sweating is a normal body function that helps regulate temperature.
Hyperhidrosis is a common condition that affects many Australians. It is characterised by sweating that is more than the body needs for cooling, most often in the underarms, on the palms and soles, and sometimes on the face. While sweating is normal, excessive sweating can affect confidence, clothing choices and daily activities. If you are concerned about sweating, a consultation with a registered medical practitioner can help determine the cause and discuss suitable options.
Common areas affected by hyperhidrosis:
- Underarms
- Palms of the hands
- Soles of the feet
- Face or scalp in some people
Treatment is individual and depends on the severity and site of sweating, your medical history and preferences. Options may include clinical-strength topical antiperspirants, prescription topical or oral medicines, iontophoresis for hands and feet, and a medicine administered to the area to reduce signals to sweat glands in suitable adults. Your practitioner will explain expected benefits, possible side effects, costs and alternatives before you decide. Results and duration vary between individuals.
A few common triggers for sweating include:
- Heat, regulated by the hypothalamus
- Emotional stress or anxiety
- Food triggers such as spicy or hot foods
Some people find over-the-counter products helpful, while others need prescription care. Where appropriate, a medicine can be administered to the affected area to reduce sweat gland stimulation. This approach is temporary and suitability depends on the site, your health history and any concurrent medicines. Changes are typically noticed gradually and a review is arranged to assess your response.
After your appointment
- Follow the personalised aftercare provided by your practitioner.
- Avoid excessive pressure, rubbing or heat on the treated area for the first day unless advised otherwise
- Delay vigorous exercise for 24 hours if recommended.
- Keep the skin clean and dry, and avoid fragranced products on sensitive areas for the remainder of the day.
If sweating is linked to another medical condition or medicine, your practitioner may recommend referral to your GP or a specialist for further assessment.
Risks and Recovery
- Important information: All procedures carry risks and are not suitable for everyone. A face-to-face consultation is required to confirm the cause of sweating, discuss options and determine suitability. Services are intended for adults aged 18 years and over. Individual outcomes vary and cannot be guaranteed.
- Possible side effects: Temporary redness, swelling, tenderness, bruising, itching, headache or a feeling of heaviness can occur at the treatment site. Infection is uncommon but possible. For treatments to the hands, temporary weakness or reduced grip strength may occur. If you notice severe pain, increasing redness, fever, spreading rash or any unexpected symptoms, contact the clinic promptly or seek medical care.
- Precautions and contraindications: Not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Caution is required with certain neurological or neuromuscular conditions, bleeding disorders, active skin infection at the site, or if you are using specific medicines that may interact with treatment. Always disclose your full medical history and all medicines and supplements, including topical products.
- Recovery and follow up: Many people return to normal activities soon after the appointment. The onset of effect and how long results last differ between individuals and by treatment area. A review may be scheduled to monitor progress and plan any further care if appropriate.
- General advice: This page provides general information only and does not replace advice from a suitably qualified health practitioner. We do not use testimonials in our advertising. Images are for information only and are not a prediction of your result. Alternatives, costs and the limits of treatment will be explained at consultation so you can make an informed decision.