Treatments for Sweaty Palms
Sweating is a natural process that helps the body control its temperature. Excessive sweating beyond what is necessary to cool the body is known as hyperhidrosis. It typically affects the palms of the hands, soles of the feet and under the arms. You might feel embarrassment and anxiety about this condition. Many options are available to you to address this problem.
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Prescription Antiperspirants
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Prescription antiperspirants like Drysol and Xerac can treat mild to moderate cases of hyperhidrosis. For maximum effectiveness, apply to the problem areas at night and wash off in the morning. These solutions are very strong and can make the skin itchy, red and swollen so it is important to clean them off the next day.
Anticholinergic Drugs
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Anticholinergic medications such as Robinul and Robinul Forte disrupt the activity of the chemical messenger acetylcholine, which stimulates the sweat glands. You should notice a change in about two weeks. This chemical is involved in many bodily processes so a number of side effects are possible; they include dry mouth, constipation, blurry vision, urinary retention, loss of taste, dizziness and confusion. Diarrhea, rash, hives, or difficulty breathing or swallowing might indicate a serious problem and you should go to a doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.
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Iontophoresis
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Iontophoresis involves the use of a battery-powered device to carry a low electrical current to affected areas while your body is immersed in water. It will temporarily block your sweat glands. The initial therapy requires daily treatments for about two weeks that last between 15 and 30 minutes. Your doctor can show you how to perform maintenance sessions at home.
Botulinum Toxin
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Botulinum toxin, better known as Botox, has proven an effective treatment for severe cases. It blocks the nerves that activate the sweat glands. Several treatments are usually necessary to achieve the desired result and last about four months. These treatments can be painful and expensive.
Surgery
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Surgery is an option usually reserved for severe cases or if you have not responded to other treatments. Endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy involves cutting the nerves that carry messages to the sweat glands. The surgery is minimally invasive, requiring only three small incisions to make room for a camera and small surgical tools. It will permanently stop sweating on the hands but can increase sweating in other parts of the body like the back or the back of the legs.
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