Diagnosing and Treating Hyperhidrosis
Diagnosis of Hyperhidrosis The process of diagnosing hyperhidrosis typically involves a consultation with a healthcare provider, who will inquire about your medical history and specific symptoms. A physical examination and various tests may be conducted to determine the underlying causes of excessive sweating.
Laboratory Tests To rule out other medical conditions that could be causing the sweating, such as hyperthyroidism or hypoglycemia, your healthcare provider might suggest blood and urine tests.
Sweat Tests Additionally, specialized tests like the iodine-starch test or a sweat test may be employed to identify the precise areas affected by sweating and to assess the severity of the condition.
Treatment Approaches If an underlying condition is identified, treating it may alleviate hyperhidrosis. Otherwise, treatment aims to manage the excessive sweating. Should lifestyle changes prove ineffective, the following treatments may be recommended, although there’s a possibility of recurrence after improvement:
Medications Various medications are available for hyperhidrosis treatment:
- Prescription Antiperspirants: Containing aluminum chloride, these are applied to dry skin before bedtime and washed off in the morning. Regular use can reduce sweating, but skin and eye irritation are potential side effects.
- Prescription Creams and Wipes: Creams with glycopyrrolate and wipes containing glycopyrronium tosylate can help manage sweating, particularly on the face, hands, feet, and underarms. Side effects may include skin irritation and dry mouth.
- Nerve-blocking Medications: Oral medications that inhibit the nerves activating sweat glands can decrease sweating, with side effects like dry mouth, blurred vision, and bladder issues.
- Antidepressants: Besides treating depression, these medications can also reduce sweating and anxiety.
- Botulinum Toxin Injections: Botox injections can block the nerves responsible for sweating. The procedure is generally not painful, but numbing methods may be used for comfort. Multiple injections are needed, and the effects last about six months, with muscle weakness as a potential side effect.
Surgical and Other Procedures For persistent cases, other treatments may be suggested:
- Iontophoresis: This at-home treatment involves soaking the hands or feet in water while a mild electrical current is passed through it, interrupting nerve signals that cause sweating. The treatment requires a prescription and is repeated several times a week until improvement is noted, after which maintenance treatments can be less frequent.
Hyperhidrosis Treatment Options
Microwave Therapy (miraDry):
- A handheld device delivers microwave energy to destroy sweat glands in the armpits.
- Treatments involve two 20- to 30-minute sessions, spaced three months apart.
- Possible side effects include changes in skin sensation and mild discomfort.
- Long-term effects are not yet fully understood.
Sweat Gland Removal:
- If excessive sweating occurs primarily in the armpits, your healthcare provider may recommend removing the sweat glands.
- Techniques include scraping them away (curettage), suctioning them out (liposuction), or a combination of both (suction curettage).
Nerve Surgery (Sympathectomy):
- During this procedure, a small section of the spinal nerves controlling hand sweating is removed.
- A potential side effect is permanent heavy sweating in other body areas (compensatory sweating).
- Surgery is generally not an option for isolated head and neck sweating.
- A variation treats palm sweating by interrupting nerve signals without removing the sympathetic nerve (sympathotomy), reducing the risk of compensatory sweating.
Note: Nerve surgery carries risks and complications and is typically considered after other treatments have been unsuccessful.
Lifestyle and Home Remedies:
- Antiperspirant: Use antiperspirants containing 6% to 20% aluminum chloride. Apply before bedtime and wash off in the morning.
- Footwear and Socks: Opt for natural materials like leather shoes and moisture-wicking athletic socks.
- Keep Feet Dry: Change socks or hose daily, use insoles and foot powder, and consider sandals or going barefoot.
- Choose Breathable Fabrics: Cotton, wool, and silk allow your skin to breathe.
Coping and Support:
- Hyperhidrosis can cause discomfort and embarrassment.
- Discuss your concerns with a healthcare provider, counselor, or others who have experienced hyperhidrosis.
Preparing for Your Appointment:
- Start with your primary care provider.
- You may be referred to a dermatologist or neurologist if needed.
- Be prepared to answer questions about your symptoms and medical history.
Certainly! Here’s a summary of what you can do before your appointment and what to expect during your doctor’s evaluation:
Before Your Appointment:
- List Answers: Consider the following questions and jot down your responses:
- Has anyone in your immediate family experienced similar symptoms?
- Does your sweating stop when you’re asleep?
- What medications and supplements do you regularly take?
- Have your symptoms led you to avoid social situations or activities?
What to Expect from Your Doctor:
- Questioning: Your healthcare provider will likely ask you several questions, including:
- When did the heavy sweating begin?
- Which areas of your body are affected?
- Are your symptoms continuous or occasional?
- Have you noticed anything that improves or worsens your symptoms?
Remember to share as much relevant information as possible during your appointment. This will help your doctor make an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options. 😊
