How to Counteract Hyperhidrosis with Cymbalta
Whether you're taking Cymbalta for a generalized anxiety disorder or to treat a condition causing chronic pain, this prescription drug may cause the side effect of excessive sweating. Most people experiencing this side effect, also known as hyperhidrosis, notice an increase in sweating on the palms of their hands, the soles of their feet and their underarms, but you may suffer from an escalation in perspiration anywhere on the body. Besides talking to your doctor about switching medications, you may be able to counteract this acquired hyperhidrosis.
Instructions
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Apply an antiperspirant. One of the easiest things you can do to help counteract hyperhidrosis as a result of Cymbalta is to start using an antiperspirant, even on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet. Regular antiperspirants can be worn throughout the day, but prescription antiperspirants can often help mild-to-moderate sweating. Simply apply this product to trouble areas before bed, and then wash off in the morning.
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Wear natural fibers from your head down to your toes. Natural fibers tend to "breathe" more than their synthetic counterparts, so wear clothing and socks made of cotton (or even wool) and shoes made of leather, woven materials or wicking fabrics (as would be the case in athletic shoes). This will keep you cool and help to counteract the hyperhidrosis.
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Talk to your doctor about anticholinergics. This type of prescription medication controls certain neurotransmitters that are telling your body to sweat, so taking an anticholinergic like glycopyrrolate can counteract the excessive sweating that Cymbalta causes.
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Try using iontophoresis, a transdermal therapy in which low-level currents essentially impede the release of sweat. Usually isolated to the hands and feet, treatment is administered each day for two to three consecutive weeks until sweating lessens. To learn more about this treatment, talk to your family physician.
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Start using Botox. While this isn't necessarily the cheapest option, Botox can eliminate excessive sweating anywhere it is injected. The number of injections needed will vary from person to person, so consult your doctor to see if this is a feasible option for you
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Tips & Warnings
When suffering from hyperhidrosis due to Cymbalta, make sure to bathe each day and dry yourself fully. Since you're experiencing an increase in perspiration, you want to ensure that your body doesn't become a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. By regularly bathing as well as drawing excess moisture away from the skin, you can keep infections at bay. Consider changing your socks (or simply removing them) after you return home from work. This can also help stave off bacterial infections as well as keep your feet dry and comfortable.
Prescription antiperspirants can often irritate the skin, so washing off this medicated solution each morning should keep the skin from swelling and reddening. Before turning to a prescription antiperspirant, make sure to try the over-the-counter variety.
