When sweating gets excessive – what you need to know.

Sweat itself is odourless. It’s simply a clear fluid released from your eccrine (sweat) glands, and we all need it. Its job is to regulate body temperature and prevent overheating — which is essential for keeping the body functioning normally.

Sweating can be triggered by heat and humidity, exercise, strong emotions, spicy foods, and even alcohol.

In other words, sweating is completely normal.

But hyperhidrosis is different. Hyperhidrosis occurs when the sweat glands become overactive and produce more sweat than the body needs. It isn’t something you can control, and for many people, it can be distressing and embarrassing.

If you sweat more than you think you should, even when you’re not exercising, this blog is for you. It explains what hyperhidrosis is, the different types, how it can affect daily life, and what treatments are available. You’ll gain a clearer understanding of the condition and the options that can help.

Types of Hyperhidrosis

Primary Focal Hyperhidrosis

It is the most common form. It’s a genetically inherited, chronic skin condition that usually begins before adulthood. It typically affects the armpits, palms, feet, and face. People with this type often have completely normal sweating elsewhere on the body, just excessive sweating in specific areas.

Secondary Generalised Hyperhidrosis

It is caused by an underlying medical condition or is a side effect of medication. It may also cause night sweating, which is not typical of primary hyperhidrosis.

Both of these conditions are different from the excessive sweating experienced by some women going through perimenopause or menopause, which is caused by hormonal changes in the body. 

It can be a whole lot of not-much-fun!

How hyperhidrosis can affect your daily life

Hyperhidrosis can lead to discomfort, stress, and ongoing worry about appearance or body odour. Sweat can irritate the skin, causing itching and inflammation.

Excess moisture on the feet can lead to cracking and fissures, while body odour develops when bacteria thrive in the moisture-rich environment.

For some, the impact is mild. For others, it affects everyday tasks, clothing choices, social interactions, and confidence.

It’s common for people with hyperhidrosis to experience:

• Anticipatory anxiety
• Social withdrawal or avoidance
• Changes to routine
• Difficulty with work-related activities
• Hesitation to shake hands or attend social events

At Neutral Bay Laser & Dermatology, we see firsthand how much this condition can affect quality of life and how transformative the right treatment plan can be.

Complications of hyperhidrosis

Left unmanaged, hyperhidrosis can lead to:

• Maceration (skin softening and fragility)
• Skin infections
• Changes in skin colour and texture
• Wrinkling or thickening
• Scarring in severe or chronic cases

Treatments for hyperhidrosis

The good news is that there are effective treatments available for hyperhidrosis and its dermatological complications. The team at NBLDC can work closely with you to develop a personalised management plan to treat your condition and improve the quality of your life. 

Management options may include:

• Clinical-strength antiperspirants
• Prescription medications
• Injectable treatments for sweat reduction
• Addressing secondary skin concerns such as irritation, infection, or inflammation

At your appointment, our dermatologist, Dr Poon, will assess your symptoms, identify potential triggers, and create a personalised management plan

Our aim is to keep your excessive sweating under control so you can feel more confident, dare to wear the clothes of your choice, feel able to shake hands without embarrassment, tolerate different weather conditions, enjoy times with friends, and engage in the hobbies that enrich your life.