is a natural physiological function of the body that enables us to cool down when we have become overheated. People need to sweat in order to maintain a healthy body temperature in a variety of different conditions. Any type of intense physical activity should cause the body to perspire. The same is true for when we are outside in intense heat.
However, some people may notice that they are sweating excessively, even when they are not exposed to any type of physical stimuli. Most people who suffer from this condition are unaware of the fact that it is a medical problem. In turn, they will not talk to their doctor to find out about the variety of different ways hyperhidrosis can be treated.
Not only will hyperhidrosis cause people to sweat excessively, it can also induce the following in people:
After visiting a doctor, the following treatments will be recommended:
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Topical treatments
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Tap Water Iontophoresis
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Surgical Methods
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Medications
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Botulinum Injections
Depending on the severity of the condition, topical treatments, while easy to use, may not provide the results desired. Essentially topical creams contain the same active ingredient as what can be found in drug store antiperspirants, which is aluminum chloride. Sufferers of excessive sweating may not find that this is an effective enough solution for their condition.
Tap water iontophoresis is an effective solution for many people, however it can only be employed on the hands and feet. It involves running a mild current through an electrolyte solution and submerging the affected body parts.
While this treatment does work, it is labor intensive. It requires up to four 20 minute sessions a week, for a period of roughly one month. The machine required can also be costly.
Surgical procedures, while effective, are an extreme way to deal with hyperhidrosis. They can be invasive and require the use of anesthesia, meaning that there will always be potential side effects. Recovery time is also necessary.
The FDA has approved Botox injections as an effective way of treating hyperhidrosis. More and more people are using this method as it is non-invasive, and renders results that are highly satisfactory.
Botulinum Toxin works by deactivating overactive sweat glands. Once it is injected into the body, it will stop the neurotransmitter acetylcholine from sending signals to the sympathetic nervous system to induce sweat.
Results from Botox will last up to 6 months, making it a cost-efficient option as well. Unlike iontophoresis, each treatment is relatively brief and does not need to be repeated over and over in the course of a month. Botulinum will also be able to treat areas of the body besides the just the hands and feet.
To find out if Botox is the best treatment to cure your excessive sweating problem, contact your doctor.