Innovative Treatments for Excessive Sweating
Explore effective and modern strategies for managing excessive sweating, including non-invasive treatments like botox and laser therapy, as well as surgical options for severe cases. Learn about their benefits and potential side effects in this comprehensive guide.
Innovative Approaches for Managing Excessive Sweating
Excessive sweating can be localized, affecting areas such as the underarms, palms, and soles, known as axillary and palmoplantar hyperhidrosis respectively. This condition occurs without underlying medical causes and is classified as primary or focal hyperhidrosis. Initial treatments typically involve medications that block sweat gland ducts, but these often fail to provide complete relief. For persistent cases, advanced options include nerve surgery or sweat gland removal, which carry risks.
- Iontophoresis involves applying a low electrical current via water to reduce sweating and is performed 2-3 times weekly. It’s painless but requires multiple sessions.
- Botox injections temporarily disable sweat production by paralyzing nerves, lasting up to 14 months. Approved specifically for underarm hyperhidrosis, it is less suitable for palms and soles.
- Laser and microwave therapies target and destroy sweat glands. Laser treatments are quicker and less uncomfortable, while microwave therapy involves local anesthesia and multiple sessions for optimal results.
- Thoracic sympathectomy is a minimally invasive surgery where a nerve is cut to halt excessive sweating. However, it may cause compensatory sweating elsewhere on the body.
