Hyperhidrosis

Our bodies naturally perspire (sweat) as a way to regulate heat. In some people, perspiration can be excessive — a condition known as hyperhidrosis. Dr. Alissa Lamoureux, DO, FAOCD, FAAD, at Skin Dermatology in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, offers a variety of proven techniques to combat excessive sweating.

Personalized Plans for Dermatological Confidence

She will work with you on a personalized plan to get you the relief you deserve. Contact Dr. Lamoureux today or book an appointment online to start your journey toward a more confident you.

What is Hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, is a common disorder which produces a lot of unhappiness. An estimated 5% of the population suffers from excessive sweating of the underarms (axillary hyperhidrosis) or of the palms and soles of the feet (palmoplantar hyperhidrosis). Underarm problems tend to start in late adolescence, while palm and sole sweating often begins earlier, around age 13 (on the average). Untreated, these problems may continue throughout life.

When is the Right Time to Talk to Dr. Lamoureux About My Hyperhidrosis?

Right now, and don’t put it off! You should come see Dr. Lamoureux when excessive sweating is getting in the way of your everyday life. Hyperhidrosis may be an issue for you if you find yourself changing your clothes often due to perspiration, or if the fear of excessive sweating stops you from doing things that you want or need to do. Diagnosis of hyperhidrosis is often delayed because sufferers are too embarrassed to discuss their condition with a board-certified dermatologist. Studies show that only 51% of people with hyperhidrosis have discussed it with their doctor.

How Do You Treat Hyperhidrosis?

Dr. Alissa Lamoureux will examine the areas of your body where you are experiencing excessive sweating and ask you a number of specific questions to help determine if you have hyperhidrosis, which kind of hyperhidrosis you may have (primary or secondary), and what may be causing it. There are a number of treatments that we can offer depending on the location and severity of your condition. Proven treatment plans which we offer at Skin Dermatology in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, utilize a combination of the following:

Antiperspirants

Antiperspirants are considered the first line of treatment for excessive sweating because they are the least invasive and least expensive treatment option. Antiperspirants are available either over-the-counter or by prescription at your preferred pharmacy from Skin Dermatology in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts.

Topical Creams

One of the first-line therapies our doctors may prescribe is daily topical creams that dry the skin. Aluminum chloride or aluminum chloride hexahydrate are the most common of these creams. Applied daily, usually at night, and then covered to encourage absorption, these creams can be very effective. However, some people find that they have uncomfortable side effects, including burning and skin reactions.

Oral Medications

Oral medications are known as systemic therapies, meaning they affect your entire body. These medications are called anticholinergics, which mean they cause a drying reaction in the body. They can be a good option for patients who sweat in multiple locations. There are some side effects, like dry mouth and dry eyes. Sometimes, after using these medications for a while, patients find they lose their effectiveness.

BOTOX Injections

In 2005, the FDA approved BOTOX® for the treatment of underarm excessive sweating. It is a natural, purified protein that has the ability to temporarily block the secretion of the chemical responsible for triggering the activation of the body’s sweat glands. BOTOX® injections have been shown to decrease sweating by 82 to 87 percent and results can last between 4 and 12 months.

QBREXZA

QBREXZA is a prescription anticholinergic medicine used on the skin (topical) to treat excessive underarm sweating (primary axillary hyperhidrosis) in adults and children 9 years of age and older.