Excessive Sweating

There are two types of hyperhidrosis, primary and secondary. In primary, emotional stimuli is believed to trigger excessive sweating. The cause of this is unknown. Secondary is associated with an underlying medical condition. Conditions triggering excessive sweating may include: infection, malignancy, spinal cord injury, and neurologic/endocrine disorders. Treatment for secondary hyperhidrosis focuses on determining and resolving the underlying condition.

Treatment

• Antiperspirants: For mild to moderate cases of hyperhidrosis, clinical strength over the county antiperspirant is usually recommended. If this treatment does not succeed in reducing symptoms, the next step is a prescription antiperspirant containing aluminum chloride. Prescription antiperspirants are applied to affected areas before bed and should be removed in the morning. Possible side effects include red, swollen, and itchy skin where applied.
• Oral Medications: There are several types of oral medications used to control hyperhidrosis. For example, anticholinergics block nerve impulses to sweat glands, which blocks sweat output. Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors prevent sweating. Clonidine reduces nerve stimuli, thereby reducing sweat. Some types of antidepressants or antianxiety medication may also control excessive sweating.
• Iontophoresis: Iontophoresis is a procedure that uses a battery-operated device to deliver electricity to the hands, feet, and sometimes armpits, through water-saturated pads. This alters the outer surface layers of the skin to prevent sweat from coming to the surface. The process of iontophoresis must be performed twice daily for 3-4 weeks. The results will last for several weeks before the procedure needs to be repeated. With the proper device, you can complete the treatment at home.
• Botulinum toxin (Botox): Botulinum toxin is a protein produced by the bacterium clostridium botulinum. When injected into the problem areas, usually armpits and palms, it temporarily blocks the nerves that trigger the sweat glands. The treatment lasts for up to six months before needing to be repeated.
• Surgery: There are two approaches to hyperhidrosis surgery. One involves interrupting the nerve signal triggering sweat. The other is to remove some sweat glands entirely. Surgery is generally considered for extremely severe cases of hyperhidrosis, and only after all other treatment options have failed. If you are a candidate for hyperhidrosis surgery, Drs. Winton, Clemons, Benson, and Peterson will discuss all the risks and benefits with you.

Brella™ Treatment

Brella™ is a non-invasive, single-use, energy-based patch. When the active material (sodium) contacts sweat, thermal energy is produced. This temporarily inactivates sweat glands leading to a reduction in sweat production.