Axillary hyperhidrosis involves profuse and tremendous perspiration of the underarms. This condition is usually accompanied by constant bad body odor that is typically resistant to commercially available deodorants and antiperspirants. Axillary hyperhidrosis poses a social and psychological risk in addition to the physical discomfort it causes.

Axillary sweating may occur by itself or in combination with any or all of the different kinds of hyperhidrosis disorders, such as in the palms, feet, or face. People afflicted by this disorder are discouraged from wearing particular clothes, materials and colors because the sweat leads to staining and deterioration of the fabric.

Profuse armpit perspiration can turn out to be an exasperating dilemma for those suffering from this condition. Axillary hyperhidrosis manifests itself through increased armpit sweat production and this is prompted by the sympathetic nervous system. A malfunction in the nerves controlling underarm sweat glands results in excessive sweat production. Axillary hyperhidrosis is at times triggered by external factors such as anxiety, psychological stress and tiredness. However, this is not a rule and there are still no evidently identified stimuli that set off unwarranted armpit perspiration.

Individuals suffering from axillary hyperhidrosis sometimes result to wearing clothes in layers, such as donning a jacket over a shirt. This way, the individual may conceal his shirt in case axillary hyperhidrosis kicks in at a bad time. It’s not uncommon for sufferers to have to change their upper garments two or three times a day, sometimes even more, due to the persistent sweating condition. Women suffering form axillary hyperhidrosis also shun garments made of delicate fabrics such as silk, since sweat marks tend to be very noticeable in such fabrics. Whatever the occasion, axillary hyperhidrosis is a cause for embarrassment for the sufferer, and may make him/her less socially secure.

This condition frequently starts during teenage years. There are, however, some cases that occur before puberty. Kids with axillary hyperhidrosis are at risk of social withdrawal at a very early age, as the other kids may find their condition a tempting target for teasing. The teasing often triggers a vicious cycle that intensifies the anxiety endured by kids during this phase, leading to a feeling of hopelessness. The idea that there is no answer to or escape from their embarrassing medical condition may lead to withdrawal and isolation, making recovery even more difficult.

People with axillary hyperhidrosis sometimes do not have the strength to open up and discuss their condition even with their own family. This is because they think that they are the only ones afflicted by this disorder. There have been instances when parents only learn about their children’s suffering after the condition has been hampering their social lives for a number of years. It’s advisable to seek professional help immediately when parents detect a lack of social interaction, grief, and low self-esteem in their child.

Treatment of hyperhidrosis often entails correcting the malfunction of the sympathetic nervous system. Surgery to remove overactive sweat glands may also be the solution. Dermatologists are well-equipped to ascertain the most suitable treatments for axillary hyperhidrosis, as well as administering such treatments.