Is excessive sweating genetic?

Hyperhidrosis. If you deal daily with excessive sweating, you are likely dealing with hyperhidrosis. While the name of this condition sounds daunting, it’s the daily problems patients with this condition deal with. Staining of expensive fabrics and clothing, and embarrassment of significant underarm wetness are just a few of the issues patients with severe hyperhidrosis deal with. Fortunately, there are ways to effectively treat this condition, although it cannot be cured at this time. Additionally, studies continue to show that there might be a genetic component to it. 

What causes excessive sweating? 

While it’s common to sweat extensively while performing a vigorous workout, it is not common—or normal—to sweat profusely when relaxing or calm. This is what makes hyperhidrosis so troubling for the patients who deal with it. Whether they’re nervous about a work presentation or not, they still deal with sweating under the arms that is highly noticeable by others. 

More recently it has been discovered that hyperhidrosis may have a genetic component. Researchers have found that there is an inherited expression of a dominant gene that can lead a patient to be more likely to develop hyperhidrosis. If a patient has at least one parent that has hyperhidrosis, they may develop the condition themselves. Those who develop it might experience feelings of anxiety, shame, or embarrassment by the severity of their excessive sweating. 

How can hyperhidrosis be treated? 

Many patients look to their local drugstore for anti-perspirants that might help control the wetness, but many will need prescription options or clinical-strength products to manage their condition. Some patients might also turn to Botox injections or surgical treatments to address the sweat glands in the underarms and seek more permanent or long-lasting relief. 

Ready to tackle excessive sweating once and for all? 

If you are tired of the embarrassment hyperhidrosis causes you and are ready to find a solution that works, contact Florida Westcoast Skin and Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida. Dr. Michael Scannon and his associates work routinely with patients who struggle with excessive sweating and are seeking effective treatment. Call (813) 877-4811 to request a consultation visit with our team at 4200 North Armenia Avenue, Suites 1 and 2. We are open to new and returning patients in our community and beyond!