Hyperhidrosis is diagnosed based on how much sweating occurs when there is neither heat nor strenuous exercise. Additionally, episodes must happen at least once every week. Differentiating between primary and secondary focal hyperhidrosis is the initial step in the diagnostic procedure. A physical exam and lab testing are frequently used to do this. Your NY Neurology Associates doctor will review your medical history and assess your symptoms carefully. They could also inquire about the frequency or timing of your symptoms.
Symptoms of hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis is categorized according to the portions of the body affected and the underlying reason for the excessive perspiration. Sweat glands, also known as sudoriferous or sudoriferous glands, are found throughout the human body, with the quantity varying from person to person. The eccrine sweat glands are found throughout the body and are the primary cooling mechanism.
Conversely, the apocrine sweat glands, primarily located in the armpits and around the anus, have no regulatory function. Furthermore, hyperhidrosis can be classified as either primary focal hyperhidrosis or secondary hyperhidrosis.
Treating hyperhidrosis with surgery
Your doctor may recommend surgery when various treatments fail, and your symptoms continue. Some cases of excessive armpit perspiration are treated by eliminating sweat glands in the underarm. Some individuals with hyperhidrosis may benefit by carefully separating the nerves that cause symptoms (called a sympathectomy).
Surgery has the potential to provide long-term advantages for chronic sweating that has not responded to previous treatments. However, every surgery includes dangers.
Many patients have postsurgical side effects, such as sweating in places that the operation did not cure (compensatory hyperhidrosis). Discuss the benefits and possible downsides of treatment with a practitioner you trust. Among the surgery options are:
- Sweat gland removal entails either common surgery to remove subcutaneous tissues containing axillary sweat glands or suction curettage, a type of liposuction in which subcutaneous and deeper dermal tissue are sucked out.
- Sympathectomy is a kind of nerve surgery in which a spinal nerve is removed to treat hand sweating. In some instances, the procedure may cause permanent compensatory sweating, which causes excessive sweating in other body regions. Because of the possibility of problems, it is regarded as a last-resort choice.
The outlook for patients with hyperhidrosis
While there is no cure for hyperhidrosis, you can manage your symptoms. Also, today’s therapies are diverse and developing. While hyperhidrosis is not life-threatening, it can significantly impact how you live. Worrying about excessive perspiration may have a negative impact on your relationships, social life, and job. Contacting a mental health professional may give crucial assistance.
A hyperhidrosis support group might link you with others who have had similar difficulties. The assistance might help you in embracing what makes you unique.
Hyperhidrosis can produce excessive sweating that is either transient or chronic. Some individuals are affected for the rest of their life. You may desire to retreat because you are concerned about how others may react to your symptoms (such as shaking your sweaty hand). Even though there is no cure for hyperhidrosis, there is assistance available.
Your doctor may advise you to use a prescription-strength antiperspirant. Newer treatments provide you with even more options for symptom relief. Call New York Neurology Associates to schedule your meeting today to learn more about the best hyperhidrosis therapies for you.
