Seven ways to treat excessive sweating

Although sweating is natural and a way for the body to cool itself down, some persons experience excessive sweating affecting the entire body, underarms, palms and/or soles. Sweating can be triggered by heat and emotion but some persons may sweat at any time.

Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) is most common in teens and young adults. It can be a source of embarrassment and frustration, especially when interacting with others. It can significantly affect the individual's quality of life.

For some persons, there may be an underlying medical cause for this problem, which can be investigated and treated by their doctor. For others, an underlying cause or reason why this occurs cannot be found. There are several options available for treating excessive sweating.

These include:

1. Avoid conditions that you believe trigger your excessive sweating, like alcohol, spicy foods and tight, occlusive clothing. Change socks at least twice a day and use an antibacterial soap when bathing. Underarm liners and shoe inserts may help absorb sweat.

2. Use antiperspirants frequently. These contain substances that block sweating. They are often available in combination with a deodorant that controls the odour from sweat. Antiperspirants contain aluminium salts like aluminium chloride in various strengths. The higher the percentage of aluminium, the stronger the protection from sweating. Some are available over-the-counter (OTC) in 'clinical strengths' as well. If these are not effective, a stronger antiperspirant containing aluminium chloride hexahydrate may be prescribed. If irritation occurs, the area can be treated with hydrocortisone and the product can be used less often or discontinued.

3. Iontophoresis is a procedure that uses a solution to apply an electric current to the skin to reduce sweating. It is more effective in treating the palms and soles than the underarms. It is usually performed in a clinical setting although some machines may be used at home.

4. A new device uses microwave technology to destroy sweat glands. It is most suited for the underarms and reduces sweating for a period of time. It may cause irritation and swelling.

5. Oral anticholinergic medications like glycopyrrolate can be prescribed to reduce sweating. Unfortunately, they may lead to unwanted side effects like blurred vision, dry mouth, problems with urination and difficulty sleeping.

6. Botulinum toxin (Botox), which is US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved to treat certain muscle spasms, wrinkles between the eyebrows and at the outer sides of eyes ('crowfeet'), has also been FDA approved to treat severe underarm sweating. Botox, which is the most popular cosmetic treatment worldwide, is quite safe in trained hands. It works by blocking the chemical signals from the nerves that cause sweating. The results can last six months to a year.

7. If all else fails, surgery may be used to remove sweat glands or to remove the nerves that control the sweat glands.

If you suffer from excessive sweating that you cannot control, remember that you are not alone and you can seek medical advice to find out which treatments are most suitable for you.

Dr Arusha Campbell-Chambers is a dermatologist and founder of Dermatology Solutions Skin Clinics & Medi-Spas; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com