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Treatment for Sweating

Stopping profuse sweating
(14 Apr 2010)

The human body uses perspiration as a method to regulate body temperature. Perspiration is controlled by the Sympathetic Nervous System, which regulates approximately five million sweat glands. Almost half of these glands are situated in the hands.

When the natural sweating becomes excessive it is known as Hyperhidrosis. This happens when the Sympathetic Nervous System malfunctions. The primary causes for excessive sweating are unknown; research shows that about half of those who suffer from excessive sweating, have a family history of this condition, which suggests that there is a genetic component that causes Hyperhidrosis. Secondary causes to Hyperhidrosis are as follows: obesity, anxiety, and psychological tension. However, excessive sweating could also have other causes such as diabetes or a side effect of certain medications. Hyperhidrosis may cause: odor, stained clothes, and inferiority complex. The condition might begin in adolescence, but is also seen in people of all age groups. There are four types of Hyperhidrosis, these are: sweaty palms or palmar, sweaty underarms or auxiliary, sweaty face or facial, and sweaty feet or plantar.

Excessive sweating can be controlled by some simple remedies. The most common remedy is the use of deodorants. When shopping for deodorants look out for the ones that offer “clinical strength” such deodorants contain aluminum zirconium, which is effective in controlling perspiration. Deodorants that contain aluminum chloride are also effective in controlling excessive sweating; however, such deodorants can cause skin irritations. Antiperspirant talcum powders are also effective in controlling excessive sweating. Wash and dry the area before dusting a generous amount of antiperspirant talc.

Currently, there are iontophoresis machines available in the market that could be used to control palmar and plantar sweating. These machines use water to conduct an electrical current through the skin. The procedure is painless and while it can be done in the privacy of your own home, some doctors also offer it. The procedure has to be repeated two to three times a week, with each session lasting for approximately twenty minutes. Depending on how the body responds to the treatment the number of sessions can be reduced to as less as one session per month. Some drugs known as anticholinergics can control sweating. However, it’s best to use these only after consulting with your doctor. Anticholinergics drugs are not suited for those whose work involves a lot of outdoor work or for athletes. Dryness in the mouth and blurred vision are some side effects of using anticholinergics drugs.

answered by G M on 14 Apr 2010, 1:24:03

Treatment for Sweating

Stopping profuse sweating (14 Apr 2010)

Stopping profuse sweating
(14 Apr 2010)