Most people have dealt with profuse sweating at least once in life, but for some people, it’s a daily struggle. Although sweating is a needed body function that helps us cool down and avert overheating, excessive sweating is stressful.
It can be caused by plenty of mental, thermal, physical, or physiological reasons. According to one report, more than 15 million US citizens are affected by this unpleasant condition.
The condition may range from mild to excessive. The causes are numerous. Some of them are certain meds, a medical condition, genetics, supplements, etc.
Types of Hyperhidrosis
There are two types of hyperhidrosis, that is, primary and secondary. The primary one affects one or more areas of the body and it usually starts in childhood and adolescence.
It can happen anywhere, but it’s most common in the hands, underarms, feet, and forehead. The sweating usually begins after waking up.
The secondary hyperhidrosis happens in all body parts and the sweating may continue during sleep. It’s usually a result of an underlying health problem or a side effect of some meds or supplements.
The Major Contributing Factors to Hyperhidrosis
- Infections
- Diabetes
- Overactive sympathetic nervous system
- Gout
- Frostbite
- Mercury poisoning
- Hyperpituitarism
- Pregnancy
- Menopause
- Hodgkin’s
- Social anxiety
- Obesity
- Hyperthyroidism
- Tumors
- Meds and supplements
- Caffeine
- Chocolate
- Withdrawal from alcohol or drugs
What Are the Treatment Options for Profuse Sweating?
In order to get a diagnosis, your physician may refer you to a dermatologist. A sweat test may also be required and additional tests to determine potential underlying causes.
For secondary hyperhidrosis, the treatment of the underlying condition will be done or the meds that are causing it will be replaced with different ones.
Other treatment options are:
- Antiperspirants
Antiperspirants are applied to the areas where the sweating is the strongest. This chemical agent absorbs and blocks the sweat glands and reduces the production of sweat.
- Over-the-counter meds
Some meds may be recommended to lower the sweating throughout the body. Never take them on their own and always consult your physician.
- Botulinum toxin injections
Botox injections may help lower sweating for four to six months. These injections temporarily block the naturally occurring chemical that stimulates the sweat glands.
- Iontophoresis
This medical device is used to send a low-voltage current through water that the hands or feet are soaked into. The current helps close the sweat glands short-term and the sweating reduces.
But, six to ten treatments may be necessary before any positive results. And, more sessions may be necessary weekly or monthly to keep the symptoms reduced.
- Electromagnetic energy treatments
If a person sweats the most in the armpits, this is an option for treatment. The doctor uses a hand-held device that destroys the sweat glands with electromagnetic energy.
- Surgery
In very severe cases, surgery may be the only option. The dermatologist may use laser, excision, liposuction, etc. in the office and this usually doesn’t require anesthesia.
There’s also sympathectomy- a surgery that requires an operating room and anesthesia. The surgeon manipulates the nerves which send messages to the sweat glands.
Natural Ways to Reduce Hyperhidrosis
- Acupuncture
This ancient practice may be of aid for profuse sweating.
One case report from the Acupuncture in Medicine journal found that acupuncture was successful for primary hyperhidrosis. In every case, the procedure reduced the symptoms.
- Good hygiene
The sweaty areas need to be washed regularly and kept optimally hygienic. But, to prevent skin infections due to excessive moisture, opt for body wash or soaps made of tea tree oil, witch hazel, or apple cider vinegar to reduce the risk of fungal and bacterial infections.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
Hyperhidrosis is linked to embarrassment and stress. It’s also a symptom of social anxiety. People who sweat a lot due to anxiety may find relief from cognitive behavioral therapy.
Using the help of a therapist, the person is able to change their reactions to common stressors and direct their thought patterns to manage the stress and alleviate the anxiety and consequently, lower the sweating too.
- Schisandra
In traditional Chinese medicine, Schisandra is promoted as helpful for reducing inflammation, boosting adrenal function, and bettering the function of the liver.
And, it may also be of aid for night sweats and hyperhidrosis. It can be found in tincture, tea, pill, or extract form. Consult your physician for the best dosage.
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