We all sweat; when we're out in public, for most of us excessive sweating can be very embarrassing. This condition is known as hyperhidrosis and for people afflicted with this condition, it's certainly no laughing matter. Although the condition rarely signifies a serious health situation, unwanted smells and stained clothing can become unacceptable and increasingly frustrating.

Why We Sweat

Sweating helps regulate our inner body temperature and is controlled by our sympathetic nervous system. There exists a "sweat control center" in our hypothalamus, which senses minor changes in temperature and other brain activities. When we are active, sweating helps to cool our body down, helping us to maintain fluid and electrolyte balance. It's also normal to experience sweating at times of nervousness and stress (i.e. sweaty palms). Hyperhidrosis occurs when we sweat more than we need to, trying to keep our body temperature down. The face, palms, armpits, groin and feet are the places in our body where we sweat the most.

Treatments For Hyperhidrosis

If hyperhidrosis is secondary to any other conditions, then clearly, those need to be treated first. If there is no apparent cause, symptomatic measures are usually taken.

Aluminum Chloride

One of the most effective agents for sweating of the hands and armpits is aluminum chloride solution (Drysol, Xerac). It's controversial how exactly aluminum chloride works, but it's thought to block sweat gland pores. After three treatments per week, most patients experience decreased sweating. These medications best work in the evening, when sweat glands activity is at a minimum. Some antiperspirants for the armpit are just as effective and can be easily purchased over the counter.

Iontophoresis

Iontophoresis is a procedure where electrical current is applied to block the sweat glands. Palms and soles that are sweaty are placed in an electrolyte solution and are soaked up to twenty minutes. One drawback is that it requires multiple treatments before it can be effective, but can last for up to a month once established.

Botulinum Toxin

Used in the realm of muscle spasms and skin wrinkles, botulinum toxin is a neurotoxic substance that has been found to be successful in treating hyperhidrosis, with the procedure lasting up to 12 months of dryness. Drawbacks include its expensive cost and the number of treatments needed for its success.

Surgery

For severe hyperhidrosis, surgery may be the only option. Removal of armpit sweat glands can significantly decrease the amount of sweating. Sympathectomy or upper thoracic ganglionectomy are surgeries that can help severe palmar hyperhidrosis, but this procedure often has high complication rates. Liposuction is a possible alternative as well.

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