Hyperhidrosis is a condition in which a person sweats unpredictably and excessively. It is a normal occurrence in the presence of anxiety, fever, hot weather and strenuous exercise. Sweating helps the body stay cool. Excessive sweating, however, occurs without triggers and can lead to physical and emotional discomfort. The primary symptom of excessive sweating is wetness in certain areas of the body, according to MedlinePlus. Excessive sweating symptoms should be evaluated by a physician for the appropriate treatment.
Step 1
Apply antiperspirants designed for people with hyperhidrosis. Topical and antiperspirant treatments are options for excessive sweating from the head, face, underarms, feet and hands. When applied to the skin, antiperspirants reduce the amount of sweat by blocking the sweat ducts.
Extra-strength antiperspirants are available over-the-counter and by prescription. According to the International Hyperhidrosis Society, the most effective ingredient to look for is aluminum chloride hexahydrate. This ingredient, however, is not suitable for use on the face.
Some prescription-strength products require night-time application with the affected areas covered with plastic wrap, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. The product is then washed off the following morning, providing relief from excess sweating throughout the day.
Antiperspirants can cause skin irritation. For proper application, follow the label instructions or contact your doctor for further information.
Step 2
Get Botox injections. Injections of botulinum toxin type A, or Botox, is a U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved treatment for excessive underarm sweating. According to MedlinePlus, Botox injections temporarily paralyze sweat ducts in the armpits. Associated side effects include flu-like symptoms and pain at the injection sites. Despite intense pain and temporary hand weakness as side effects, Botox injections are also used for sweaty palms. Botox is not a cure, however. Repeated treatments are necessary to prevent symptoms from returning.
Step 3
Schedule a consultation to learn about iontophoresis. According to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library, iontophoresis is a process that utilizes weak electrical currents to stabilize and control areas of excessive sweating. The feet and hands are immersed in a container of water. Low-voltage currents then travel through the water via a medical device obtained through prescription only. This procedure is performed in the home by the patient.
The International Hyperhidrosis Society reports that the electricity currents may thicken the skin and prevent excessive sweating. The therapy requires several sessions. Although rare, side effects include blisters and skin cracking.
Step 4
Undergo surgery. Endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy, also known as ETS surgery, may be performed when other excessive sweating treatments have failed, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It is primarily used to treat excessive sweating of the hands and face. This procedure surgically removes a portion of sweat glands.
The International Hyperhidrosis Society warns that most experts do not recommend ETS surgery because it can cause severe sweating on the chest, back, buttocks and underarms. This procedure cannot be reversed.
Things You'll Need
- Antiperspirant with aluminum chloride hexahydrate
- Plastic wrap
- Prescription for iontophoresis medical device
