Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis affects people differently and is typically identified by the area of the body where sweating occurs. Common symptoms include:

• Excessive sweating of the hands, feet, underarms, face, or torso
• Sweat that soaks through clothing
• Facial flushing
• Sweating that interferes with work, social situations, or daily tasks

Excessive sweating can affect nearly any part of the body, but it most commonly occurs on the:

• Hands (palms)
• Feet (soles)
• Underarms
• Face and scalp
• Chest, back, or groin

Hyperhidrosis is categorized by location and severity. Severity may be classified as mild, moderate, or severe based on the amount of sweating and how much it interferes with daily life.

Focal Hyperhidrosis

Focal hyperhidrosis affects specific areas of the body and is the most common form. Types include:

• Axillary hyperhidrosis – underarms
• Palmar hyperhidrosis – hands
• Plantar hyperhidrosis– feet
• Craniofacial hyperhidrosis – face and scalp
• Inguinal hyperhidrosis – groin or genitals
• Lower back hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis occurs when sweat glands become overactive and produce sweat outside of normal temperature regulation.

Hyperhidrosis occurs when sweat glands become overactive and produce sweat outside of normal temperature regulation.

• Family history or genetic predisposition
• Overstimulation of the nervous system

Environmental and emotional triggers:

• Stress, anxiety, or nervousness
• Heat or humidity
• Physical activity

Food and drink triggers:

• Spicy or fatty foods
• Sugary or salty foods
• High-protein diets
• Caffeine
• Alcohol

Medical conditions associated with excessive sweating:

• Anxiety disorders
• Diabetes
• Hyperthyroidism
• Menopause
• Obesity
• Heart disease
• Parkinson’s disease
• Infections or certain cancers

Medications that may cause excessive sweating:

• Antidepressants (e.g., sertraline, bupropion)
• Insulin
• Thyroid medications
• Certain pain relievers
• Blood pressure medications

Hyperhidrosis is typically a long-term or chronic condition. While it usually doesn’t go away on its own, treatments can significantly reduce symptoms. Some treatments work quickly, while others may take several weeks to reach full effectiveness.

Hyperhidrosis rarely resolves without treatment. There is no permanent cure, but managing triggers, treating underlying conditions, and using medical therapies can help control symptoms and improve quality of life.

Excessive sweating can often be managed with medical treatments or lifestyle adjustments.

Common Treatment Options

• Prescription-strength antiperspirants (such as Drysol®)
• Anticholinergic medications (e.g., glycopyrrolate)
• Certain antidepressants
• Beta-blockers
• Botox® injections

If sweating is linked to another medical condition or medication, your provider may adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

Some medical procedures can permanently reduce or eliminate sweating by destroying or disabling sweat glands. These include:

• Iontophoresis – Uses a low electrical current to block sweat glands in hands or feet over time
• Microwave therapy (miraDry®) – Destroys sweat glands using thermal energy
• Endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) – A surgical procedure that interrupts nerve signals to sweat glands
• Sweat gland removal – Performed using laser, excision, curettage, or liposuction techniques

Treatment options range from topical and oral medications to minimally invasive procedures. First-line treatments often include:

• Prescription antiperspirants
• Oral anticholinergic medications
• Antidepressants or beta-blockers
• Botox® injections

In more severe cases, procedural or surgical options may be considered.

Yes. Treatment recommendations depend on the affected area, severity of symptoms, and individual response. Your provider will help determine the most effective option for your specific type of hyperhidrosis.

Some mild cases can be managed at home with:

• Over-the-counter or prescription antiperspirants
• Frequent bathing
• Wearing loose, breathable clothing
• Avoiding known triggers such as spicy foods or caffeine

Yes. You can access prescription treatment for excessive sweating through Future Now Rx. Complete a quick online assessment and connect with a licensed provider—no in-person visit required.