Tired Of A Clammy Handshake? What Are Your Sweat-Reducing Options?
While many may be accustomed to the feeling of sweaty, clammy palms during times of intense stress or nervousness (such as before a big interview or speech), for those suffering from hyperhidrosis, this sensation is a daily occurrence. Hyperhidrosis can cause affected individuals to sweat far more than customary, and many who deal with this condition can find themselves packing changes of clothing, dry napkins, and other supplies just to get through the day with a semblance of dryness. Fortunately, there are some treatments that can help this excess sweating, leaving your hands smooth and dry in even stressful situations. Read on to learn more about some of your options when it comes to reducing the amount of sweat your hands produce.
Botox
Often thought of as just a way to reduce wrinkles, Botox has a wide range of other uses, from treating the jaw and neck pain caused by TMJ to relaxing the tiny muscles that can cause migraines. Botox is also effective at reducing the symptoms of hyperhidrosis; by paralyzing the nerves and sweat glands in the affected areas, this treatment can significantly cut down on the amount of sweat your body produces and expels.
You'll want to see a dermatologist to discuss whether this treatment is right for you. If you're in good general health and are wiling to undergo a few small pinprick injections, you may opt for treatment of your underarms or the palms of your hands to determine whether Botox can stop your excessive sweating. Although this treatment will wear off after a few months as your body naturally reabsorbs the Botox, you may find it effective (and even life-changing) enough to continue regular treatments, at least during the summer months when excessive sweating can put you at risk of dehydration.
Prescription medication
There are a few types of medications that have been effective in reducing sweating by essentially numbing the signals your brain sends to your most overactive sweat glands. Because these medications can have some severe side effects on those with prior kidney, liver, or other organ problems, it's important to discuss this treatment plan with your doctor prior to embarking on it.
Since medication is a holistic rather than targeted treatment, you may also want to consider it if your hyperhidrosis is the full-body variety; in some cases, being medicated can make more sense than seeking Botox injections throughout your entire body. A dermatologist like those at Jordan Valley Dermatology can help you evaluate your symptoms to see what will work best for you.