Hyperhidrosis Treatment

Excessive sweating can be a considerable burden, particularly during summer, and is a common complaint in countries where the weather is warm for most of the year, such as Cyprus, Greece and Malta. It has a psychological impact, disrupts everyday activities, and affects social and working relationships.

What hyperhidrosis is

Hyperhidrosis is the excessive production of sweat from the body’s sweat glands. It usually affects the armpits, palms, face, genitals and soles of the feet, causing one or several episodes a week while the patient is awake.

It is not the same as normal sweating. Many people sweat when they exercise, are under pressure, or are in a very warm environment. People who have hyperhidrosis feel the sweat dripping off their palms and soaking through their clothes. This degree of sweating often causes embarrassment, anxiety, loss of confidence, depression and social avoidance.

Symptoms

• Excessive sweating — sweat production that exceeds what is needed to regulate body temperature.
• Persistent wetness — constant dampness in the affected areas, leading to discomfort.
• Skin irritation — prolonged exposure to moisture can cause irritation and, if not managed, infection.
• Odour — excess sweat production increases the risk of body odour.

Why it is worth treating

Living with untreated hyperhidrosis is difficult, and the effects are both physical and emotional.

Day to day, sweat stains on clothing cause social anxiety and self-consciousness. It may restrict participation in certain activities or the choice of fabrics. Managing it constantly takes time and affects productivity at work or school.

There are also health consequences. Prolonged exposure to moisture increases the risk of skin infections such as fungal or bacterial overgrowth, and of painful skin conditions such as dermatitis or eczema.

Treatment with toxin injections

The effective treatment for primary hyperhidrosis is the use of toxins in the axillary area — the underarm. The treatment is quick and painless: a numbing cream is applied to the area first, then a very fine needle is used to make numerous tiny injections into the axilla, about half a centimetre apart.

The injected drug temporarily blocks the small muscles of the skin that are responsible for the secretion of sweat from the sweat glands. Results are evident within two to three days and can last up to six to nine months. For many doctors this is the first choice of treatment, because the results are durable and there are no significant side effects.

Surgery

Excessive sweating can also be treated permanently with surgery. Surgical treatment is not guaranteed to be effective and may cause side effects. It is suggested only where non-invasive treatments have not solved the problem.

Aftercare

• Keep the treated area clean and dry, using a gentle cleanser or soap.
• Moisturise after cleansing to prevent dryness or irritation.
• Avoid excessive heat — hot showers, saunas and prolonged sun exposure can trigger sweating again.
• Wear loose-fitting clothes in natural fabrics such as cotton or linen.
• Use antiperspirants on untreated areas for additional protection.
• Shower regularly and use antibacterial soap to reduce the bacteria on the skin that contribute to odour.
• Be aware of triggers that may provoke sweating even after treatment, such as stress, spicy food, caffeine, or certain medications.
• Get in touch if you have any concerns following treatment.

Where treatment takes place

Treatment is provided in accredited medical centres in Cyprus (Nicosia and Limassol), Greece (Athens) and Malta (Sliema).