Excessive sweating, also know as hyperhidrosis, is a common condition that can occur anywhere on the body where sweat glands are located, must noticeably in the armpits. Excessive sweating is typically not physically harmful, but can be psychologically difficult if you experience regular sweat stains. When sweat is a problem, there are several treatment options available, ranging from over-the-counter products to surgical intervention, depending on how serious the sweating is.
Antiperspirants
Antiperspirants are the first line of defense when it comes to sweating in the armpits. Antiperspirants mix the smell of deodorants with metallic salts, such as aluminum chloride hexahydrate, to plug or block the pores in the armpit. When regular antiperspirant is not enough, prescription antiperspirant may be recommended by your doctor.
Anticholinergics
Anticholinergics are prescription medications that block acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter that stimulates the sweat glands to produce sweat. By blocking acetylcholine, sweat can be reduced in the armpit and other areas of the body.
Botox
Botox is made up of a neurotoxin known as Botulinum type A. According to the Mayo Clinic, when injected into the armpits, Botox works by blocking sympathetic nerve signals at the injection site. These signals are necessary for the body to activate the sweat glands.
Surgery
Surgery can be performed in one of two ways. For armpit sweat, one option is to completely remove the sweat glands from the armpits. Another options is to have a endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy, in which the sympathetic nerve pathways to the sweat glands are severed.
