Treating Hyperhidrosis

        It is not uncommon to suffer from excessive sweating. According to sciencedaily.com, an estimated 7.8 million Americans have hyperhidrosis, or 2.8 percent of the population. Of this population, 50.8 percent, or 4 million, have excessive sweating of the underarms. Do you suffer from hyperhidrosis and are interested in treating it? Now you can by making an appointment with Dr. Kurzman.

        Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition which causes excessive sweating that is not just related to heat or exercise. Excessive sweating occurs when a pers on sweats more than is required for cooling. It often causes sweating from the palms, feet, head, and most commonly the underarms. While the rest of the body can remain dry, one or two of these areas can drip with sweat. This condition can interfere with everyday routines. Your hands may become so sweaty that it is difficult to turn a door handle or operate a computer. Sweat from the underarms can soak through clothes which can make people feel self-conscious. The skin being frequently wet can also cause skin infections to develop.

        Are you not sure if you have hyperhidrosis? Some of the symptoms include, visible sweating, sweating inhibiting everyday activities, your skin turning soft, white, and peeling in specific areas, and skin infections. When your sweating starts to inhibit your everyday activities, you may become too self-conscious to do anything, or you maybe just be incapable of doing small activities. Excessive sweating can be a sign of a serious condition. See Dr. Kurzman if your sweating disrupts your daily routine, sweating causes emotional distress, social withdrawal or if you experience night sweats for no apparent reason.

        Dr. Kurzman will treat hyperhidrosis depending on the severity of the condition and where the sweating occurs in the body. Treatments include antiperspirants, prescription medication, iontophoresis, and Botox injections.

1. Antiperspirants - Antiperspirants are usually used first. When applied as directed, the antiperspirant can be effective. Some patients may need a more powerful antiperspirant and will receive a prescription.
2. Prescription medication – The prescription medication can be a prescription antiperspirant with a high strength of aluminum chloride, topical glycopyrrolate (brand name Qberxa), and oral glycopyrrolate. Qbrexa is a prescription medication used on the skin to treat excessive underarm sweating in people 9 years of age or older. Qbrexa is FDA approved for use on the skin in the underarm only.
3. Iontophoresis - Iontophoresis is used if sweating occurs on the hands, feet, or both. You will put your hands or feet in a shallow pan of salt water. A medical device will send a low-voltage current through the water. This can all be done at home.
4. Botox – Botox is injected into the underarms, hands, or feet. To be effective, a patient will have a very small amount injected in multiple areas of the underarms, hands, or feet. The Botox injections use botulinum toxin to block the nerve signals responsible for sweating, stopping the sweat glands from producing too much sweat. Treatment is typically needed again in four to six months, as the nerve regenerates. Over time, you can go longer between treatments.

        The injections are well tolerated by patients and the treatment is very effective. They are most effective when hyperhidrosis is confined to one area of the body. The procedure is simple. The results will typically show in several days.

        Do not hesitate to treat your hyperhidrosis. Botox has been a revolutionary treatment for hyperhidrosis and has helped improve the quality of life for many people. You no longer must cancel activities or feel self-conscious about your excessive sweating. Call us today to make your appointment and find out what option is best for treating your hyperhidrosis.