How Dermatologists Can Treat Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis is a condition that causes excessive sweating in various places on the body, such as the feet, hands and underarms. It can be difficult to manage. If you suffer from hyperhidrosis, then your best option is to see a medical dermatologist. Below is a list of some of the ways that a dermatologist can treat hyperhidrosis:
Iontophoresis treatments
Iontophoresis is one of the ways that a dermatologist can treat hyperhidrosis. It involves treating the affected areas with an electric current through a wet pad or water. The electrical current helps block the sweat glands. Iontophoresis is not a painful treatment. However, it can cause minor skin irritation.
One session of iontophoresis typically lasts between 20 and 30 minutes. People typically get between two and four treatments per week. Symptoms typically improve within one week.
Botulium toxin injections
Botulium toxin injections can be applied directly to the areas that are affected by hyperhidrosis. Anywhere from 15 to 20 injections are administered to the area. One treatment session typically lasts between 30 and 45 minutes. The effects of the botulium toxin injections typically last several months. The injections work by blocking brain signals that stimulate the sweat glands.
Botulium toxin injections are effective, but they can cause side effects. Some of those side effects include nausea, headaches, pain and redness. Those side effects usually subside quickly.
Surgery to treat excessive sweating
If other treatments fail, or a person has severe hyperhidrosis, then surgery may be recommended. Endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy, or ETS, is one of surgical options for treating hyperhidrosis. It is typically used to treat excessive sweating in the armpits or palm.
ETS is performed by making small incisions on one side of the chest. The nerves that control sweating are thin clipped and cut. ETS can cause side effects, which is why it is only recommended for people who have severe hyperhidrosis.
The sweat glands can also be surgically destroyed or removed. The sweat glands can be cut out. They can also be destroyed via electromagnetic radiation or laser energy.
Hyperhidrosis can be an embarrassing condition. Fortunately, you do not have to let it ruin your life. Contact Calabasas Dermatology Center if you are looking for a professional to treat hyperhidrosis.