Hyperhidrosis - Excessive sweating

Hyperhidrosis, pronounced as hi-pur-hi-DROE-sis, refers to excessive sweating not necessarily triggered by heat or physical activity. It can be so severe that it penetrates clothing or results in dripping hands, causing disruptions to daily life and potentially leading to social anxiety and embarrassment. If you reside in the western suburbs of Chicago and are experiencing hyperhidrosis or suspect you may have its symptoms, Oak Dermatology, with clinics in Naperville, Itasca, and Joliet, IL, is celebrated for its specialized proficiency in treating hyperhidrosis.

The primary symptom of hyperhidrosis is profuse sweating, extending beyond what is typical for hot environments, physical activity, or emotional tension. This form of hyperhidrosis, commonly impacting the hands, feet, underarms, or face, manifests with at least one occurrence per week during waking hours, often affecting both sides of the body.

If you're encountering symptoms indicative of bothersome sweat, seeking guidance from a specialist is crucial. All providers at Oak Dermatology possess expertise in diagnosing and addressing this condition, delivering empathetic support and cutting-edge treatment modalities.

Sweating serves as the body's natural cooling mechanism, with the nervous system activating sweat glands automatically when body temperature increases. Additionally, sweating, particularly on the palms, can occur during nervousness. Primary hyperhidrosis stems from flawed nerve signals prompting eccrine sweat glands to become excessively active. This condition typically affects areas like the palms, soles of the feet, underarms, and occasionally the face. Its origin is often familial, without any discernible medical cause.

Secondary hyperhidrosis arises from an underlying medical condition or the usage of specific medications, including pain relievers, antidepressants, and certain diabetes and hormonal drugs. This variant can induce widespread sweating throughout the body and may be linked to conditions such as diabetes, menopausal hot flashes, thyroid issues, certain cancers, nervous system disorders, and infections. For more tailored lifestyle recommendations, make an appointment with one of Oak Dermatology’s skilled providers in Naperville, Itasca, and Joliet, IL.

Managing sweating and body odor can involve several strategies, such as using antiperspirants with 6% to 20% aluminum chloride to temporarily obstruct sweat pores, opting for shoes and socks crafted from natural materials to enhance breathability and prevent sweaty feet, ensuring dryness by changing socks or hose daily, choosing moisture-wicking athletic socks for physical activity, selecting clothing made of natural fabrics like cotton, wool, and silk, and considering fabrics designed to draw moisture away from the skin during vigorous activities.