What Is Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)?
Excessive sweating is the condition in which the body produces much more sweat than it needs. This may indicate a health problem when it is not only associated with external factors such as hot air, physical activity, or stress. Normally, the body sweats in order to regulate body temperature; however, in case of excessive sweating, this regulation mechanism works excessively.
Excessive sweating is usually concentrated on the hands, feet, underarms, head and face, but can also occur elsewhere on the body.
How Is Excessive Sweating Treated?
Excessive sweating treatment can be done in a variety of ways, taking into account the severity of sweating and what areas it has spread to. Treatment methods aim to reduce the effect on sweating, and treatment can be customised to individual needs.
Methods often used in the treatment of excessive sweating include topical treatments, medications, botulinum toxin injections, physical treatments, and surgical interventions. The treatment plan is determined based on the severity of excessive sweating, which area it affects, and the person's lifestyle. In addition, the patient's general health status and previous history of treatment are also considered.
How Are Treatments for Excessive Sweating Performed?
Excessive sweating treatment is applied to the person specifically due to the variety of treatment methods. Below are details of the methods used to treat excessive sweating:
Antiperspirants: Antiperspirants are products that reduce sweating and are often used in the form of cream, roll-on, or spray. These products prevent the production of sweat by allowing the sweat glands to temporarily close.
Medication: Medication is another option used to treat excessive sweating. Medications taken by mouth are used to prevent excessive functioning of sweat glands.
Botulinum toxin Injections: botulinum toxin temporarily paralyzes the sweat glands, reducing sweating. It is administered via injection to areas with sweating problems.
Iontophoresis: Iontophoresis is a treatment method applied using an electric current. This method is applied by giving the body a low level of electrical current in order to prevent sweat glands from working. Iontophoresis treatment is usually suitable for hands and feet and reduces sweating.
Surgery: Surgery is an option when excessive sweating is very severe and other treatments have not worked. It may involve removing sweat glands or cutting the nerves that trigger sweating. One of the most common surgical options is endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy, in which the sympathetic nerves controlling sweating are cut.