What Are the Treatments for Excessive Sweating?
Excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis, can be an embarrassing condition. The excessive sweating isn't always just located to the armpit area, but can also affect the palms of your hands and soles of your feet. According to the Mayo Clinic, approximately 2 to 3 percent of people in the United States suffer from hyperhidrosis. Unfortunately, there isn't usually a specific cause for the majority of cases, but there are treatment options available that are effective at reducing sweating.
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Identification
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Excessive sweating isn't defined in measurable amounts. Increased sweating during stressful events or exercise does not indicate hyperhidrosis. Profuse and constant sweating, no matter what the temperature or situation, is indicative of excessive sweating. The skin, particularly in the underarm area, may be red and irritated. It can also interfere with daily life and make it difficult for the patient to grip a steering wheel or shake hands.
Causes
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Excessive sweating tends to occur in otherwise healthy individuals with no identifiable cause. There are, however, cases that can be attributed to hormonal and nervous system disorders. These can include hyperthyroidism and nerve damage. Cancer and severe infections also can cause excessive sweating. Certain types of medications, such as anti-depressants and even aspirin also can be the cause of hyperhidrosis.
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Antiperspirants
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Basic commercial antiperspirants can help control many cases of excessive sweating. Daily usage would be recommended to help control the sweating. For some people, twice daily usage may be needed to control the sweating continuously. Along with over-the-counter antiperspirants there are also prescription alternatives available. This option can be discussed with a physician if excessive sweating begins to interfere with daily activities.
Aluminum Chloride
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A solution containing aluminum chloride also can be applied to any trouble areas. It's particularly helpful on the palms, soles and genital area. This is available over-the-counter and by prescription and requires the patient dry the area and apply the solution. The effectiveness can also be enhanced by simply laying a plastic film over the solution. To reduce sweating, two applications daily are recommended. It usually takes about one week to see results.
Other Options
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Botulinum toxin, also known as botox, can be injected into the problem areas to help stop excessive sweating. The toxin acts to block the sweat produced by the sweat glands. You can also take certain medications, such as phenoxybenzamine, to help control the excessive sweating. As a last resort, surgical options may be discussed with your physician. These can include surgery that cuts the nerves leading to the sweat glands, reducing the output of sweat, and liposuction to remove the glands.
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