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Conventional Treatment for Sweaty Hands

Hyperhidrosis occurs when sweat is secreted in amounts greater than what is actually needed to cool down the body. It can affect many areas of the body, but sweaty hands can be especially frustrating for some people, as it can cause embarrassment in new social situations. There are several different treatment options for those suffering from this condition.

  1. Prescription Treatments

    • A primary care doctor or dermatologist can prescribe special antiperspirants to help tame sweaty palms. Antiperspirants that contain aluminum chloride are used to treat hyperhidrosis. Apply the antiperspirant to the palms at night before bedtime. Allow to dry before going to bed.

      Anticholinergic drugs such as glycopyrrolate work by blocking the actions of acetylcholine, a chemical messenger in the body that helps stimulate sweat glands. Symptoms generally improve in about two weeks.

    Iontophoresis Treatments

    • For iontophoresis treatments, patients must seek the assistance of a dermatologist. In this procedure, a dermatologist delivers a low level electrical current to the hands for about 15 to 30 minutes while the patient's body is immersed in water. It is thought to temporarily stop sweat glands. Treatments are performed once a day for about two weeks followed by maintenance therapy.

    Botox Treatments

    • Botox can also be administered by a doctor. While Botox is generally used in the treatment of wrinkles, it can also treat hyperhidrosis by blocking nerves that trigger sweat glands. It typically takes several injections to achieve desired results. The results last about four months.

    Surgery

    • In some cases, surgery may be an option. Cutting the nerves that carry the messages from the sympathetic nerves to the sweat glands can help stop sweaty palms altogether. The surgery is performed using a procedure known as endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy, which requires three small incisions. It can be performed as an outpatient procedure or a one-day hospitalization. After the surgery, sweating on the hands stops permanently.

    Clothing

    • When shopping, choose natural-fiber clothing. Wear natural fabrics, such as cotton, wool and silk, which allow your skin to breathe. Even though sweaty palms are the concern, more air to the skin can help reduce sweaty palms.

      Avoid wearing gloves except in the coldest weather. For sports activities, wear a glove or other athletic equipment on the hands only when absolutely necessary.

    Hand Washing

    • Wash hands often. Regular washing helps keep bacteria off of the skin.

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