There are many effective treatment methods for axillary hyperhidrosis (commonly known as excessive underarm sweating). Read about the various solutions and decide which treatment methods will best help you stop excessive armpit sweating.
Axillary hyperhidrosis is a health disorder characterized by constant excessive sweating in the underarms area generally caused by overactive sweat glands. Depending on the severity of the problem, sweaty armpits can often be effectively controlled with the right treatments.
Some popular treatment methods for axillary hyperhidrosis are:
- Antiperspirants
- Non-surgical Medical Procedures
- Invasive Surgery
Antiperspirants
Typically, individuals who suffer from axillary hyperhidrosis should try using antiperspirants as the first line of treatment to stop sweaty armpits. Most good antiperspirants contain aluminum based chemical formulations such as aluminum chloride which has the ability to blocks the hyperactive underarm sweat glands, preventing sweat from coming out. Antiperspirants are notorious for causing skin irritation, however their consistent use to stop sweaty armpits can produce remarkable effects. Some antiperspirants also come combined with a deodorant.
Non-surgical Medical Procedures
Oral medication, Botox and iontophoresis are the frequently implemented non-surgical medical procedures for preventing excessive armpit sweating. All of them have their own pros and cons. Oral medication for example has general sweat reducing effect but has many side effects including blurred vision, constipation, palpitations and impaired speech.
Botox on the other hand is effective in treating underarm sweating, however its effectiveness only last four to eight months. Considering the high costs involved, Botox may not be feasible for many.
Iontophoresis helps prevent excessive armpit sweating by passing low intensity electric current to the underarm regions covered with moistened pads. Consistent treatment and maintenance sessions are required to bring temporary relief from excessive armpit sweating.
Invasive Surgery
Doctors would only recommend surgery for individuals with severe axillary hyperhidrosis after all possible treatment methods and remedies for controlling sweaty underarms fail. Endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS), the surgery for axillary hyperhidrosis is an minimal invasive procedure that involves a small incision or clamping of the main sympathetic nerve that runs alongside the spine to block sweat inducing signals.
While ETS is generally considered a safe and effective treatment procedure for axillary hyperhidrosis patients, there is however a 10% chance that patients may experience no improvement from the surgery or unwanted side effects such as compensatory sweating other parts of the body mainly the back, lower legs and thighs.