TREATMENT FOR EXCESSIVE SWEATING AVAILABLE AT NORTHSIDE
For the millions of Americans who suffer from excessive sweating, it can be a difficult problem, both physically and emotionally. Although, not medically dangerous, the condition is embarrassing and makes activities of daily living difficult. However, through minimally invasive surgery and other non-surgical treatments, physicians at Northside Hospital are helping these patients find relief.
Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) is a medical condition in which a person sweats excessively and unpredictably. Most commonly occurring in the hands, excessive sweating also can occur in the armpits or the feet. Sufferers often feel self-conscious about shaking hands with others or trying to hide sweat spots on their shirts. They also may have difficulty holding a pen, gripping the steering wheel or grasping other objects, or even to wearing some slip-on shoes.
“In most cases of excessive sweating, there is no known cause,” said John Moore, M.D., thoracic surgeon on staff at Northside Hospital. “It can be brought on by stress, emotion or exercise, but also can occur spontaneously, without any trigger.”
According to The Society of Thoracic Surgeons, approximately 1-3 percent of the population suffers from hyperhidrosis, yet less than half seek treatment, likely because they don’t know that treatment exists. However, several non-invasive treatment options are available including over-the-counter and prescription-strength antiperspirants and medications.
In more severe cases, a minimally-invasive surgical procedure, called sympathectomy, may be recommended, when other treatments fail. Through several small incisions, the surgeon locates the nerves that cause sweating in the problem area and then cuts or destroys them – literally turning off the signal that tells the body to sweat excessively.
“The procedure usually is performed on patients who have hyperhidrosis of the palms, but does not work as well for those who have excessive armpit sweating,” said Moore. “Patients often see results immediately.”
Individuals, who suffer from excessive sweating that is disrupting their life or are experiencing sweating in conjunction with other symptoms such as chest pain or weight loss, should call their health care provider. Free physician referral is available through Northside Hospital.
