Hyperhidrosis is diagnosed by an experienced physician skilled in identifying the condition through observation and questioning. When patients arrive, hands, feet, socks, shirts, and armpits are observed for excessive sweating. In many cases, sweat drips off of the affected areas and clothing such as socks and shirts show visible signs of wetness.
Additionally, a series of questions are asked to determine the level that sweat is affecting the person’s well-being. For example, they may be asked if they avoid certain activities or events because of excessive sweating, time of day sweating occurs, activities that trigger sweating. Questions may also be asked to determine if any underlying causes could be the source of excessive sweating. This will help the physician determine if the condition is primary hyperhidrosis, which is caused by excessive production of sweat from the sweat glands or secondary hyperhidrosis which is associated with other medical conditions or medications.
In order for the physician to accurately recommend treatment options, further questioning will determine if any measures have been taken to stop the hyperhidrosis, such as topical antiperspirants, medications or other measures.
After considering all answers, observing the level of sweat occurring, determining if the condition is primary or secondary hyperhidrosis and evaluating results of any countermeasures already undertaken, the physician will make a recommendation for treatment beginning with the least invasive option. Click on the conditions to the left to learn more about the symptoms and treatment options of hyperhidrosis.