How to manage excessive sweating

Excessive sweating, also known as hyperhidrosis, is a common condition that affects many people.

It can affect one’s confidence and disrupt daily life, but there’s help available says aesthetic doctor and founder of Yatenya Medical Practice and Wellness Centre Alma Negonga.

Negonga says hyperhidrosis comes in two forms, Primary or idiopathic hyperhidrosis is often genetic, starting in childhood or the teenage years, affecting areas like the underarms, palms, and soles.

It can also be secondary, caused by underlying conditions like thyroid disorders, diabetes, menopause, or certain medications, she says.

Ashamaambo Ileka (32) says he has experienced excessive sweating, which is uncomfortable on a daily basis.

“I highly recommend hyperhidrosis treatment.

It is worth spending N$3 000 on both armpits to reduce sweating.

“I received treatment in December and the doctor says I can go back in between four and six months, depending on my condition,” he says.

Ileka says before the treatment, he spent a lot of money on different products to treat his excessive sweating, with no success.

He says he travels often and even air conditioning did not reduce his sweating.

“I am of normal bodyweight and couldn’t understand the cause of my sweating. I used to feel uncomfortable wearing shirts as my underarm area would always be sweat-stained.”

Nengonga says her practice first determines the cause of the hyperhidrosis through an individual’s medical history, a physical exam, and blood tests if needed.

“We understand that excessive sweating can be a distressing condition,” she says.

It is not just about treating the symptoms, but also addressing the root cause, she says.

Treatment is personalised and includes medical-grade antiperspirants, Botox injections, which are 80% to 95% effective and lasts four to nine months, topical treatments, lifestyle guidance, and stress management support.

Negonga advises people to wear breathable fabrics, use antibacterial soaps, avoid spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol, and manage stress with breathing techniques, as well as keeping the affected areas dry.

“Small changes can make a big difference,” she says.

Hyperhidrosis can affect one’s work and social life.

Counseling is offered before discreet treatment, with support to regain confidence.

“Excessive sweating is a medical condition that can be overcome, not a personal failing,” Negonga says.

She says hyperhidrosis is sometimes linked to underlying conditions like thyroid disease or diabetes.

If sweating interferes with your daily life, is visible and persistent, or occurs without heat or exertion, seek medical help, she says.

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