Some people suffer from hyperhidrosis of the face, head, back, chest and groin. It is important to establish whether or not another medical condition is responsible for this.

Facial or head hyperhidrosis (craniofacial sweating), often also involves the neck. The condition, stemming from hyperactivity of the sympathetic nervous system, often causes the skin to appear greasy. It may occur alone or in combination with facial blushing.

Facial blushing (Erythrophobia), caused by over activity of the sympathetic nervous system, is an uncontrollable, intense reddening of the face that may occur with or without stress, embarrassment or anxiety. Normal facial blushing generally appears and fades quickly, but Erythrophobia sufferers endure frequent, prolonged facial heat and a bright red glow that attracts attention and is often misinterpreted as a sign of illness or social discomfort. It can occur alone or in combination with other sweating. Erythrophobia is not hyperhidrosis so we do not deal with it on this website as there are many websites that cover this subject. For more information on blushing see http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Blushing/Pages/Introduction.aspx

Aluminum Chloride antiperspirants (Odaban, Anhydrol Forte & Driclor), obtained from your GP, is usually the first line of treatment for excessive sweating.

Oxybutynin is very helpful for people who suffer from Hyperhidrosis all over their body or for those who suffer from compensatory sweating following ETS. The modified release version, 10mg to 30mg has fewer side effects.

Botox can be successful in treating some of these areas, though is not licensed in the UK and is only available in a few private clinics.

 Surgery(ETS) is successful for facial sweating though may result in compensatory sweating and may induce complications which should be thoroughly researched before undergoing this procedure.

Treatment for hyperhidrosis of the head, back, chest and groin is generally better treated with medication.

Other products that may be useful: Hydrosal gel http://www.hydrosalgel.com/index_en.html and Secure Wipes (Robinul wipes) www.pharmacy.ca.