Control excessive underarm perspiration
Excessive underarm sweating is an embarrassing problem for many people. Clinically termed hyperhidrosis, this condition occurs when the body produces more sweat than is needed to control body temperature. According to the Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide, hyperhidrosis is somewhat common, affecting 1 to 3 percent of the U.S. population, and often involves not only the underarms, but the palms, feet and groin as well. There are many options available to treat excessive underarm sweating.
Instructions
Steps
1. Apply a strong antiperspirant. A topical antiperspirant works to reduce underarm sweating by blocking the sweat ducts. According to the Mayo Clinic, products containing 10 to 15 percent aluminum chloride hexahydrate should be your first course of treatment for excessive wetness. In a recent study funded by Procter and Gamble, researchers discovered that applying antiperspirant to the underarms both morning and evening was much more effective than only applying it once a day. Swipe on an antiperspirant just before bed, then reapply after your morning shower. It is best to wait until skin is completely dry before applying to reduce the risk of skin irritation.
2. Consider prescription drugs. If antiperspirants aren't enough to control your underarm sweating, there are prescription drug options available. These drugs, such as glycopyrrolate, are called anticholinergics, and help to prevent the stimulation of sweat glands. These drugs have been proven effective for some individuals, but not without side effects. Dizziness, dry mouth, and problems urinating have been reported.
3. Try iontophoresis. This procedure, which has been approved by the FDA, uses electricity to temporarily shut off the sweat glands. The area is submerged in lukewarm water for about 10 to 20 minutes while a mild electric current is passed through the water, causing a tingling sensation. According to Harvard Medical School, excessive sweating usually starts to improve after five to 10 sessions, at a rate of about three sessions weekly. To maintain, it may be necessary to continue the therapy about once a week indefinitely. The main side effects associated with this procedure are dry, cracked skin and irritation.
4. Try Botox. Injections of botulinum toxin type A, or Botox, have been FDA-approved for the treatment of excessive underarm sweating. It works by temporarily blocking the nerves responsible for stimulate the sweat glands under the arms. According to the Mayo Clinic, it may take several injections to achieve full relief of symptoms. The results typically last only about four months. Side effects reported include flu-like symptoms and pain at the injection site.
5. Consider surgery. If your excessive underarm sweating does not respond to antiperspirants, drugs, or other treatments, a surgical procedure called endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy or ETS may be right or you. In this procedure, the nerves that stimulate the sweat glands are cut. This usually requires three small incisions and a day in the hospital. Completely removing the sweat glands under the arm may be another option.
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