I sweat too much, why? and is there something I can do about it?
Excessive sweating, or Hyperhidrosis, affects 2-3% of Americans! Unfortunately in the majority of patients with this condition, a cause is never identified. There are theories that primary hyperhidrosis is caused by an overactive “sympathetic system”, but no one knows for sure.
But more importantly, what can you do about it? Treatments include over the counter or prescription antiperspirants, iontophoresis, botox, oral anti-cholenergic medications, and even surgery!
Your physician can prescribe several medications, including Aluminium chloride (hexahydrate) solution in a higher concentration than found in OTC antiperspirants.
Surgical options include Iontophoresis, an interesting procedure where a weak electrical current is passed through your affected body part while it is submerged in water. There are also surgeries that sever the nerves that cause sweating in certain parts of the body. Botox injections are also catching on now as a treatment of choice in armpits, but have not made their way into mainstream treatment of hands/feet.
Of course you should always approach your physician about this, and any medical condition, first. There is always a possibility of some underlying nastiness that could be causing your sweating, so always get it checked out!
For more information, visit : http://sweathelp.org
