How to Get Rid of Excessive Underarm Sweating
Overview
There is a very small percentage of the population that does not suffer from underarm sweating from time to time. Of that percentage, there are some people who suffer worse than others. The actual medical condition that causes excessive sweating under the arms is "axillary hyperhidrosis." This condition can be hard to deal with in business and social situations. There are several ways that it can be treated.
Step 1
Get an antiperspirant. Deodorants are used to help stop odor under the arms, but they do little in the way of moisture. Instead use an antiperspirant that has aluminum chloride in it.
Step 2
Get a topical prescription from your doctor. If you try using a regular antiperspirant and it does not work, see your doctor about a prescription formula that has higher levels of aluminum chloride in it.
Step 3
Get an oral prescription. If you do not want to use an antiperspirant, there are various oral medications that can be used to keep the sweat glands from becoming stimulated. Some of these include beta blockers and glycopyrrolate.
Step 4
Use some talcum powder. To help increase the effectiveness of your antiperspirant and to further absorb wetness, use talcum powder under your arms as well.
Step 5
Get your nerves blocked. Botox is the short form of botulinum toxin type A. This is a substance that can be injected into the site under the arms where the sweat glands are located to help block the nerves that cause the stimulation of sweat.
Step 6
Have surgery. Endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy is a surgical procedure that is usually done for the palms, but if all other treatments don't seem to be working, it can be tried with the underarms as well. In this procedure, the actual sweat glands are removed.
Step 7
Shave your armpits. Keeping your armpits free of hair can reduce heat under your arms and reduce the build-up of bacteria and sweat. Cut as much hair off with scissors, then use electric clippers and razor blades to get the rest. Be careful when you are using a razor, as this is a tender area.
References
About this Author
Kevin Rail has worked in the fitness industry since 2001 and has been writing since 2004. He has professional experience as a certified personal trainer, wellness coach, motivational engineer and freelance fitness writer. He currently writes a monthly column for Ron Jones High-Performance Health. Rail has a bachelor's degree in sport management and fitness and wellness from California University of Pennsylvania.
Member Comments
by bosthoff on October 15, 2009 at 11:18 AM
I was wondering why you did not mention to the readers about Mon Ray Antiperspirant. It is as strong as Drysol, but you don't have to pay for an office call to the doctor, and it does not require a prescription. A friend told me about this product, and it really helped me with my problem. I actually use it on my hands as well. Please tell your readers things that can save them money.