An integrative approach to the treatment of hyperhidrosis: review and case study

A review of the world literature indicates that there is a multiplicity of treatment approaches for hyperhidrosis. Most of these concentrate on the symptom itself and range from topical applications to sympathectomy. This paper demonstrates the value of an integrative approach in which behaviour therapy, combined with hypnosis, is used in conjunction with psychodynamic psychotherapy. This is a case study of a 58-year-old single man who, due to his severe social anxiety, had suffered from excessive sweating throughout his life. The dual approach to treatment concentrates both on the hyperhidrosis as well as its causation. The patient made an excellent recovery and this was maintained over a two year period. Copyright © 2007 British Society of Experimental & Clinical Hypnosis. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.