Hyperhidrosis

Question 1

What is the management strategy for hyperhidrosis?

Answer 1

• Topical aluminium chloride preparations are first-line.
  
  • Main side effect is skin irritation
• Iontophoresis: particularly useful for patients with palmar, plantar and axillary hyperhidrosis
• Botulinum toxin: currently licensed for axillary symptoms
• Surgery: e.g. Endoscopic transthoracic sympathectomy. Patients should be made aware of the risk of compensatory sweating