Why Do I Sweat So Easily?

Excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis, affects millions of people and can take a real toll on daily life. If you’re dealing with it, you’re not alone — and there are effective treatment options available, including miraDry^®, a non-invasive procedure that offers long-lasting relief.

Sweating helps to cool down the body, and while this is a perfectly normal function of the body, anyone who suffers from excessive sweating knows it can be a nuisance. Medically referred to as hyperhidrosis, this condition occurs when the sweat glands are working harder than they need to. Those who suffer from excessive sweating can typically be categorized as having primary or secondary hyperhidrosis.

What Is Primary Hyperhidrosis?

Primary focal hyperhidrosis is the most common cause of excessive sweating, and it happens when the sweating is localized to certain areas of the body, such as the underarms, hands, or face. This condition tends to be symmetrical, affecting both sides of the body equally. While the exact cause is unknown, primary focal hyperhidrosis is thought to result from the nervous system sending signals to the sweat glands to overproduce, even when the body does not need additional cooling.

For many people, primary hyperhidrosis begins in childhood or adolescence and persists into adulthood. It can interfere with everyday activities, damage self-confidence, and make social situations feel stressful. Clothing choices, handshakes, and even simple tasks like writing or typing can become sources of anxiety for those living with the condition. The good news is that primary focal hyperhidrosis responds well to targeted treatment.

What Is Secondary Hyperhidrosis?

Secondary hyperhidrosis, on the other hand, causes excessive sweating throughout the body and is caused by an underlying health condition, such as a thyroid issue, diabetes, or anxiety. Unlike primary hyperhidrosis, secondary hyperhidrosis often begins in adulthood and tends to occur during sleep as well as during waking hours. Identifying and treating the root cause is the first step toward managing this form of the condition.

What Are My Treatment Options?

While secondary hyperhidrosis requires treatment for the underlying health concern to address sweating, primary focal hyperhidrosis can be dramatically improved with certain treatment options. Approaches range from clinical-strength antiperspirants and prescription medications to BOTOX^® injections, which temporarily block the nerve signals that trigger sweating. For patients looking for a longer-lasting solution, however, these options can feel like an ongoing commitment with no permanent end in sight.

At Suburban Surgical Care Specialists, our team offers multiple solutions for hyperhidrosis, including the innovative miraDry^® treatment.

How Does miraDry^® Work?

miraDry^® is a non-invasive procedure that is FDA-approved to resolve excessive sweating in the underarms. By sending gentle electromagnetic heat to the target area, sweat glands are damaged, preventing them from perspiring. Since the underarms make up such a small percentage of your body’s sweat glands, this is considered a safe treatment that will not inhibit your body’s ability to cool itself.

The procedure is performed in-office and typically takes about one hour to complete. A local anesthetic is applied beforehand to keep patients comfortable, and the miraDry^® handpiece also features a built-in cooling system to further minimize any discomfort during treatment. There are no incisions involved, and most patients are able to return to their normal daily routine right after their appointment.

What Results Can I Expect from miraDry^®?

Many patients notice a significant reduction in sweating immediately following their miraDry^® treatment. Results are designed to be long-lasting, as the treated sweat glands do not regenerate. Most patients achieve their desired outcome after one session, though those with more severe hyperhidrosis may benefit from a second treatment. In addition to reduced sweating, many patients also report a noticeable decrease in underarm odor, making miraDry^® a comprehensive solution for underarm hyperhidrosis.

Is miraDry^® Right for Me?

If you have been living with excessive underarm sweating and are looking for a lasting solution, miraDry^® may be a strong option to explore. It is suitable for all skin types and tones, requires no surgery, and fits easily into a busy schedule with minimal recovery time. During your consultation, one of our doctors will review your symptoms and health history to determine whether miraDry^® is the right fit for you.

If you would like more information about how miraDry^® can provide long-lasting relief from excessive sweating, please contact our office today.

Editor’s note: The original version of this post was published June 8, 2021.