Hyperhidrosis is an ailment characterized by excessive sweating, affecting about 3% of the population. Affected individuals sweat a lot more than the body needs to cool itself. It can be a tremendously uncomfortable, socially awkward, and embarrassing condition. Thankfully, it’s manageable, with several effective treatments. Among the treatments are topicals, oral medications, injections, surgery, and excessive sweating electric treatment.
What is Hyperhidrosis?
Before we delve into the treatments of hyperhidrosis, we should understand what it entails. Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition marked by abnormally high sweating, either in some specific body parts, such as the armpits, hands, feet, or face, or it can be generalized all over the body. Typically, the disorder begins in adolescence and tends to persist into adulthood.
Hyperhidrosis Treatment Options
Treating hyperhidrosis largely depends on its severity and the specific area of the body it affects. Here are the most common treatment options:
Antiperspirants
Antiperspirants are the first line of treatment and are usually available over the counter. They contain aluminum salts that form a plug to obstruct sweat ducts while also serving as an astringent to reduce pore size. The result is less sweat on the skin’s surface.
Oral Medications
When over-the-counter treatments do not bring relief, oral medications might be a suitable option. Doctors often prescribe anticholinergic drugs to combat excessive sweating. These drugs block the transmission of the nerve signals that trigger sweating.
Botox Injections
Botox (botulinum toxin) injections are FDA-approved for treating severe underarm sweating when topical medicines do not work. Botox works on the nervous system to block out the signals that stimulate sweat glands.
Surgery
In rare cases where other treatments fail, surgical intervention might be necessary. Surgeons may cut, scrape, or suction out the sweat glands or interrupt the transmission of nerves leading to the sweat glands. Endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) is one type of surgery that is performed, mostly for palm or facial hyperhidrosis.
Excessive Sweating Electric Treatment
One of the standout treatments for hyperhidrosis is the excessive sweating electric treatment, technically known as iontophoresis. This treatment involves the use of a medical device that employs mild, controlled electric currents to block sweat. The procedure typically involves placing hands, feet, or both in a shallow tray of water while a gentle current of electricity passes through. These electric currents work to temporarily close off the sweat glands, preventing excessive perspiration.
Iontophoresis treatments have been reported to reduce sweating by 81-91%. Treatment is usually conducted three times a week until desired dryness is achieved, after which maintenance treatments are required. A great benefit is that this treatment can be done at home after instruction from a healthcare provider.
Conclusion
Hyperhidrosis is a challenging disorder to live with, but several treatments can help manage the condition and improve the quality of life for those dealing with it. Treatments range from over-the-counter antiperspirants, oral medications, Botox injections, surgery, and the innovative excessive sweating electric treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider to discuss the best options, considering individual cases, life circumstances, and personal preferences.