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| Hyperhidrosis Treatment |
Hyperhidrosis, commonly known as excessive sweating, is a condition that
affects millions of people worldwide. While sweating is a natural bodily
function, those suffering from hyperhidrosis sweat far more than what is
considered normal. The excessive sweating often interferes with one's daily
activities and affects quality of life. Thankfully, there are effective
treatment options available today that can provide relief for hyperhidrosis
sufferers. This article provides an overview of hyperhidrosis, its causes, and
the various medical and non-medical treatment approaches.
What is Hyperhidrosis?
Hyperhidrosis refers to excessive sweating beyond what is considered normal for
the temperature and level of physical activity. It affects both males and
females and commonly occurs in the underarms, palms, soles of the feet, and
occasionally the face, scalp or entire body. Primary hyperhidrosis has no
identifiable cause, while secondary hyperhidrosis is associated with an
underlying medical condition or medication. Excessive sweating leads to
embarrassment, anxiety, social isolation and lowered self-esteem in
hyperhidrosis patients. It negatively impacts relationships and work
productivity. The condition typically appears during adolescence and persists
throughout adulthood.
Causes of Hyperhidrosis
While the exact causes of primary Hyperhidrosis
Treatment are unknown, researchers believe it may have a genetic
component. The sweat glands in hyperhidrosis patients seem to overproduce sweat
even when the body's temperature is normal. Secondary hyperhidrosis is linked
to various underlying medical issues like hyperthyroidism, infections, hormonal
disorders, menopause, anxiety, medications, and neurological conditions like
Parkinson's disease. Triggers like spicy foods, stress, caffeine, and ambient
temperature can worsen excessive sweating in patients.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Moderate to severe cases of hyperhidrosis are generally first treated with
non-invasive options before considering surgery. These include topical
treatments, prescription antiperspirants, iontophoresis, botulinum toxin
injections, and oral prescription medications.
Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter clinical strength antiperspirants
containing aluminium chloride hexahydrate work well for many. Prescription
strength antiperspirants and wipes are also available.
Iontophoresis: This non-invasive treatment uses a mild electric current to
inhibit sweat gland functioning. The hands or feet are soaked in a water
solution and a low-voltage current is passed for 20-30 minutes per session, 2-3
times a week. Significant improvement is seen in 4-6 weeks.
Oral Medications: Anticholinergic drugs like glycopyrrolate and oxybutynin are
effective for widespread hyperhidrosis. Side effects may include dry mouth,
constipation, blurred vision etc.
Botox Injections: Botox (botulinum toxin A) temporarily paralyzes sweat glands
when injected into problem areas. Results last 3-4 months on average. It's most
effective for axillary hyperhidrosis.
Prescription Antiperspirants: Stronger topical formulas containing aluminium
chloride provide effective relief without side effects seen in oral
medications.
Surgical Treatment Options for Hyperhidrosis
For severe cases unresponsive to first-line therapies, surgeries may be
considered. These include:
Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy (ETS): This minimally-invasive procedure
severs part of the sympathetic nervous system chain controlling sweating. It
stops sweat production completely but risks include compensatory sweating
elsewhere.
Miradry: An FDA approved treatment using controlled heating to damage sweat
glands under the arms. It shows approximately 80% effectiveness for axillary
hyperhidrosis.
Liposuction: Removes sweat glands from problem areas like palms/soles. May
require repeat procedures for continued benefit. Side effects include scarring
and altered sensations.
Surgical Curettage: Scrapes off sweat glands physically. Comeback of sweat
glands over time limits effectiveness of this procedure.
Managing Hyperhidrosis with Lifestyle Changes
Along with medical therapies, lifestyle changes play an important supporting
role in managing hyperhidrosis. Stress management techniques like meditation,
yoga, and counselling help minimize triggers. Loose, breathable fabrics prevent
overheating. Regular exercise and a healthy diet also maintain overall
wellness. With persistent treatment and lifestyle modifications, patients can
gain relief from symptoms and regain confidence in social and professional
spheres of life.
Hyperhidrosis significantly impacts quality of life but encouragingly has many
effective treatment options today ranging from prescription-strength
antiperspirants and oral medications to minimally-invasive procedures like
iontophoresis and Botox. Selecting the right treatment approach depends on
individual factors like severity, location of sweating and responsiveness to
initial therapies. With persistence, hyperhidrosis patients can find relief
from their excessive sweating.
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