Hyperhidrosis is the medical term for excessive sweating. This sweating may be limited to one area or affect the whole body. If you have this condition, you may sweat even when there is no heat source and you have not exerted yourself.
You may hear this condition called sudorrhea or polyhidrosis. It is not life-threatening, but it can be extremely uncomfortable and cause embarrassment. In this article, you will learn ways to treat it.
Antiperspirants and creams
Antiperspirants and creams are often the first tools used to combat excessive sweating. Both are applied topically. You may use over-the-counter antiperspirants or prescription antiperspirants. Antiperspirants typically contain aluminum salts that work by blocking your sweat pores to prevent sweating. This is what the majority of people use to avoid excessive sweating.
Prescription antiperspirants containing [1] aluminum chloride are often recommended if those you buy over the counter do not work. Prescription antiperspirants may irritate your skin and eyes more than over-the-counter antiperspirants. Drysol and Xerac Ac are common prescription antiperspirants.
Antiperspirants are often applied in the underarms but you may also use them on other sweaty areas. If your doctor recommends creams containing glycopyrrolate [2], you may apply it to your face and head to combat hyperhidrosis.