Iontophoresis
This procedure involves sending a small electrical current to the surface of the affected area while it is submerged in water. In general, treatments must be repeated 3-4 times per week. The procedure can be done at home using a home device. Although this procedure can be used for treating severe underarm sweating, it is usually more useful for controlling sweating in other areas of the body, such as the hands and feet.
Surgery
A variety of surgical approaches have been used to treat severe sweating, but they are usually reserved for the most severe cases that do not respond to other treatments. If you consider surgical intervention you should only do so with a surgeon who is specially trained.
Alternative therapy
Herbal remedies such as sage tea or sage tablets, chamomile, valerian root, and St. John's wort, as well as biofeedback, acupuncture, hypnosis, and relaxation techniques, are sometimes suggested as treatments for excessive sweating. However, there is little research at this time to indicate the effectiveness of such treatments.
Every Day Tips for Non-medical Help in Controlling Excessive Sweating
While only a doctor can prescribe or perform certain hyperhidrosis treatments, there are things you can do to help make excessive sweating less of a burden on your everyday life:
Bathe daily to keep the amount of bacteria on your skin in check.
Dry yourself thoroughly after you bathe. Bacteria and fungi (which can cause body odor and infections on irritated skin) thrive in damp spaces, like between your toes. If you have sweaty feet, use foot powders to help absorb sweat.
Apply antiperspirant products in the evening. Antiperspirants may be used on hands and feet as well as on underarms. Gently massaging them into the skin may be useful. Follow instructions carefully if using prescription antiperspirants.
Wear natural fabrics, such as cotton, wool, and silk, which allow your skin to breathe. When you exercise, you might prefer high-tech fabrics that wick moisture away from your skin.
"Dress shields," small pads that go in your armpits to absorb sweat, may be an option for you. You may also want to keep an extra shirt with you for emergencies.
Launder your clothes and/or change your shoes and clothing often.
If you have trouble with sweaty feet, rotate your shoes. Your shoes may not dry out overnight, so try not to wear the same pair two days in a row. If you have shoes with removable insoles, change those often. Many athletic shoes can be machine washed and dried in the sun to reduce odor causing bacteria buildup.
Moisture-wicking athletic socks are a good choice. These may be made of merino wool (which doesn’t itch) or a synthetic blend sometimes called "polypro."
Change your socks often. Change socks or pantyhose once or twice a day, drying your feet thoroughly each time. Women should try pantyhose with cotton soles.
Air your feet. Go barefoot when you can, or at least slip out of your shoes now and then.
Avoid hot beverages (such as coffee), alcohol, and spices, which can make you sweat.
Try relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or biofeedback. These can help you learn to control the stress that can trigger perspiration.
Change your diet. Make note of any foods or beverages that cause you to sweat more than usual. Consider eliminating caffeinated drinks (like coffee and cola) from your diet as well as alcohol, certain “hot” spices, and foods with strong odors, such as garlic and onions.
Join a support group or online discussion board for moral support and to learn more about new treatments.
But while it may sometimes seem like no one understands what you’re going through, it’s important to remember that you are not alone. Many people suffer from excessive sweating. Read some of their personal stories here. If you have a loved one who you think has hyperhidrosis, there are ways you can help. Visit the For Family and Friends page to learn more.
Hyperhidrosis Links
To learn about excessive sweating Sweathelp.org
Newsletter on Hyperhidrosis from the International Hyperhidrosis Society SweatHelp.Org
Botox for Hyperhidrosis
Summer Soles Shoe Inserts for Sweaty Feet
During your office consultation you will be provided with a detailed plan of the treatments that will benefit you most. Initial Cosmetic Consultations are Complimentary.
Please contact us by phone or email with any questions you may have or request an appointment online for your complimentary consultation. Would you like to share this information with a friend? Click here to Send this Page to a Friend.
|
