Which Medical Specialty to Consult for Excessive Sweating? - Family Medicine

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If you experience excessive sweating, you should consult a dermatologist?


Hello, I am someone who sweats a lot, and excessive sweating has caused me difficulties in both my personal and professional life.
Since my time in the military, I would break a sweat and leave a noticeable sweat mark after just a few push-ups.
Now, with the climate getting hotter, I can't stand being without a fan or air conditioning.
Even during the job application process, filling out a resume makes me break into a sweat.
In this kind of weather and temperature, my underwear is soaked with sweat all day long.
Should I consult a metabolic specialist, or would it be better to choose another specialty?

Yang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/05/26

Dr. Gao Qingyun reply Family Medicine


Hello, as the weather gets hotter, these issues are becoming more common and severe.
Before seeking assistance from a physician, it is advisable to confirm the following: 1.
Check if the environment is indeed excessively hot or poorly ventilated.
If so, it is best to avoid prolonged exposure to such conditions, and to use air conditioning appropriately as the climate changes, or to dehumidify the environment if necessary to prevent high humidity.
2.
It is important to maintain a healthy weight within the normal range and engage in sufficient physical activity to regulate the normal function of the autonomic nervous system.
3.
Adopt a balanced and light diet, avoiding excessive intake of hot, spicy, irritating, high-fat, high-salt foods, or foods with excessive additives or processing.
4.
Maintain a regular daily routine, ensure adequate sleep, and avoid overworking.
If problems or symptoms persist after making these lifestyle adjustments, it is recommended to consult with a family medicine physician for further discussion and examination.
Wishing you safety and health.
Dr.
Gao Qingyun, Attending Physician, Department of Family Medicine, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2014/05/26

More Info


Excessive sweating, also known as hyperhidrosis, can indeed be a significant concern for many individuals, affecting their daily lives, self-esteem, and overall comfort. When considering which medical specialty to consult for this issue, it is essential to understand the underlying causes and the appropriate specialists who can address them.

1. Primary Care Physician: Your first step should typically be to consult with a primary care physician (PCP). They can evaluate your symptoms, take a detailed medical history, and perform a physical examination. They may also rule out any underlying medical conditions that could be contributing to your excessive sweating, such as hyperthyroidism, diabetes, or infections.

2. Dermatology: If your PCP determines that your sweating is not due to an underlying medical condition, they may refer you to a dermatologist. Dermatologists specialize in skin conditions and can provide treatments specifically for hyperhidrosis. They may recommend topical treatments, such as aluminum chloride antiperspirants, or other therapies like iontophoresis, which involves using electrical currents to reduce sweating.

3. Endocrinology: If there is a suspicion that your sweating is related to hormonal imbalances, an endocrinologist may be the appropriate specialist to consult. They can evaluate your hormone levels and assess conditions like hyperthyroidism or adrenal gland disorders, which can lead to excessive sweating.

4. Neurology: In some cases, excessive sweating can be linked to neurological conditions. If your sweating is accompanied by other neurological symptoms, a neurologist may be consulted to rule out any nerve-related issues.

5. Surgery: For severe cases of hyperhidrosis that do not respond to other treatments, surgical options may be considered. A procedure known as sympathectomy can be performed to cut nerves that trigger sweating. This is typically done by a thoracic surgeon.

6. Lifestyle and Behavioral Therapy: In addition to medical treatments, consulting with a psychologist or counselor may also be beneficial, especially if your sweating is causing significant anxiety or social discomfort. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help manage the psychological aspects of living with hyperhidrosis.

In summary, while starting with a primary care physician is advisable, the path to managing excessive sweating may involve multiple specialists, including dermatologists and endocrinologists. Each of these specialists can provide valuable insights and treatment options tailored to your specific situation.
It's also important to note that lifestyle modifications can help manage symptoms. Staying cool, wearing breathable fabrics, and using moisture-wicking clothing can alleviate some discomfort. Additionally, discussing your concerns openly with your healthcare provider can lead to a more personalized approach to treatment.

In conclusion, if you are experiencing excessive sweating that is impacting your daily life, seeking help from a primary care physician is a good first step. They can guide you through the process of identifying the cause and referring you to the appropriate specialists for further evaluation and treatment.

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