Sweat is the body’s way of keeping itself cool. Most people sweat in warm temperatures, while exercising or in stressful situations. When a person produces an excessive amount of sweat at unpredictable times it is known as hyperhidrosis. Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition which is believed to be caused by overactive sweat glands.
There are two types of hyperhidrosis, primary and secondary. Primary hyperhidrosis affects the hands, feet, and armpits and there is no known cause although it is believed to run in families. Secondary hyperhidrosis, on the other hand, causes a person to sweat all over and is usually the result of another medical condition.
Hyperhidrosis understandably causes a person much distress. And although up to two percent of the population suffers from primary hyperhidrosis, less than 40 percent of sufferers ever seek medical attention. This is unfortunate because with medical intervention, primary hyperhidrosis can be controlled.
Over-the-counter antiperspirants that contain aluminum chloride are usually the first thing a doctor will suggest, although the success rate is low. Prescription antiperspirants that contain aluminum chloride hexahydrate are another option. Other treatments for primary hyperhidrosis include Botox shots, surgery, and medication. However, many patients understandably prefer to avoid shots, surgery or medication as all of these treatments come with significant side effects.
One treatment that has been shown to be extremely effective is iontophoresis. Iontophoresis uses electricity to temporarily “turn off” sweat glands. Used most frequently for sweaty hands and feet, these body parts are placed in water and a gentle current of electricity is passed through that water. The amount of electricity gradually increases until the patient feels a slight tingling. To be effective, several 10- to 20-minute sessions are required, followed by a maintenance program that consists of treatments approximately every two weeks. Side effects of iontophoresis are rare and include skin cracking and blisters.
Iontophoresis is not painful nor is it a new concept. In fact, it was first used almost 50 years ago to combat excessive sweating. Although it is not known exactly how it works, this FDA-approved treatment is believed to plug the sweat ducts. Patients may purchase this medical device with a doctor’s prescription and insurance companies will often cover the cost of the device.