We all sweat. It’s a fact of life, especially for those who live in warmer climates, are active outdoors, do physically intensive work, push it in the gym, or have an air conditioner that faithfully conks out in the middle of summer. It is how our body cools itself when overheated. Most of the time, a shower and change of clothes, or getting into a cooler place will remedy the situation. But that doesn’t hold true for everyone.
Some folks experience continuous or excessive sweating, whether in the hot outdoors or a frigid air-conditioned room. The condition, known as hyperhidrosis, is most often found afflicting the palms of the hands and bottom of the feet. For those with the condition, it can require constant attention, often having to have towels, tissues, or other wipes handy at all times to dry the sweaty offenders. Many may wear gloves to prevent their wet hands from dampening everything they touch. For some, it can be quite distressing as they endure the stares, whispers, unpleasant facial expressions, and sometimes insults from those around them who may find this misunderstood condition less than pleasant. They may socially withdraw and become depressed, and it often disrupts daily routines and tasks and quality of life is compromised as a result. Hyperhidrosis can manifest itself for no apparent reason and can be unpredictable or persistent. It is a disorder that, although it is not life-threatening or painful, it can be challenging to live with.
There are two types of hyperhidrosis, Primary Focal and Secondary Generalized. The International Hyperhidrosis Society https://www.sweathelp.org/home/types-of-hyperhidrosis.html defines Primary Focal as “excessive sweating that is not caused by another medical condition, nor is it a side effect of medications. The excessive sweating is the medical condition itself. The most common focal areas are the sweaty hands, sweaty feet, sweaty underarms, and sweaty face or head.”
Secondary Generalized is described as “excessive sweating that is caused by another medical condition or is a side effect of a medication. That’s why it’s called secondary – it’s secondary to something else. Unlike with primary focal hyperhidrosis, people with secondary hyperhidrosis experience sweating on larger or other areas of the body (described as generalized areas). Another key difference between the two types of hyperhidrosis is that people with secondary generalized hyperhidrosis may often experience their sweating symptoms while sleeping.”
There is good news for our perspiring friends. Along with the common recommendations that have had results, including antiperspirants, Botox injections, medicated wipes, medications, and specialized surgeries, is a treatment called Iontophoresis. This therapy has been around since the 1940s for the hands and feet, but advances allow the principles to be used in other areas as well. “During Iontophoresis, a medical device delivers mild electrical currents while your affected body part is submerged in water. The currents are often delivered to the hands, feet, or armpits to block your sweat glands temporarily. Some people feel a slight tingling sensation during the procedure, but the electrical current isn’t strong enough to shock you.”, as explained by Healthline https://www.healthline.com/health/iontophoresis .
Patients may need several sessions a week for more positive outcomes, each lasting from 25 – 45 minutes which are performed by trained professionals. This therapy has shown dramatic reductions in sweating by blocking the glands from secreting the moisture, particularly in the hands and feet.
In addition, this therapy has been found effective in treating many sports injuries. However, not everyone is able to make use of this technology. Those with epilepsy, heart conditions, pacemakers, other artificial metallic implants, and pregnant women cannot utilize this electric current treatment. It is imperative that you discuss any treatment with your primary care provider before starting one. Although it is, in general, a safe and painless option to treat excessive sweating, your doctor is your first call when starting anything new, followed by treatments in a facility well-trained in the procedure. If you suffer from or believe you might have hyperhidrosis, contact your provider today so that you can be appropriately diagnosed and begin the process that can help return some normality to your daily life.
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