Hyperhidrosis is the medical term for excessive sweating — sweating that goes beyond what’s needed to regulate body temperature.
Many people with hyperhidrosis sweat heavily from just one or two areas of the body, most commonly the palms, feet, underarms, or head, while the rest of the body stays dry. It’s a genuine medical condition, not just a cosmetic concern, and can affect confidence and daily life. At Face Studio Clinic on Hagley Road, we help Birmingham patients talk through their symptoms and understand what options may be available to them.
What causes hyperhidrosis?
Hyperhidrosis is generally grouped into two types:
- Primary (focal) hyperhidrosis — excessive sweating with no identifiable underlying cause, often affecting specific areas like the palms, soles, underarms, or face, and sometimes running in families.
- Secondary hyperhidrosis — excessive sweating linked to an underlying cause, such as another health condition or certain medications, and often affecting the whole body rather than specific areas.
If you’re not sure which applies to you, that’s exactly what a consultation is for.
What happens at a consultation
Everyone’s experience of hyperhidrosis is different, so we start by talking through your symptoms, which areas are affected, and what you’ve already tried — including prescription-strength antiperspirants. From there, our team can explain what other options may be appropriate for you, along with the risks and what to expect,
FAQs
How does the treatment work?
Muscle relaxing treatments work by blocking the nerves responsible for activating your sweat glands. Normally, your nervous system activates your sweat glands when your body temperature rises. This is how your body automatically cools itself down. In people with hyperhidrosis, the nerves that signal the sweat glands are overactive.
What causes it?
It can be primary (no identifiable cause, sometimes hereditary) or secondary (linked to another health condition or medication). A consultation can help work out which applies to you.
What should I try first?
Prescription-strength antiperspirants are usually the first step for many people. If these haven’t helped, it’s worth discussing further options at a consultation.
Is hyperhidrosis treatable?
There are a number of approaches depending on the type and severity, which your practitioner will discuss with you individually.
Do I need to see a GP as well?
Since hyperhidrosis can occasionally be linked to an underlying health condition, your practitioner may suggest checking in with your GP alongside any treatment discussed here.
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