Excessive Sweating in Summer and Its Treatment

Excessive sweating negatively affects not only social life but also a person's health. With treatment options used to prevent excessive sweating, it is possible to get rid of this problem. Experts from Anadolu Health Center answered our questions about excessive sweating and its treatment.

In extremely hot weather, we tend to sweat more compared to winter. In fact, sweating is a completely natural and necessary process for our health. However, excessive sweating can lead to some problems. Sometimes, it can even reach a level that affects daily life and work life. We asked the experts at Anadolu Health Center about excessive sweating.

What is Excessive Sweating and What Are Its Causes?

Excessive sweating refers to the overproduction of sweat by sweat glands. Although sweat glands are found throughout the body, they are most concentrated on the palms, soles of the feet, and the forehead. The primary function of sweat glands is to keep the skin moisturized and regulate body temperature. There are between 2 to 4 million sweat glands in the body. On average, they produce 3 liters per hour, or 10 liters per day. The evaporation of this sweat prevents the body from overheating. In fact, the sweat secreted by the glands is colorless, odorless, and has a pH between 5 and 6. Sweating in the hands, feet, and armpits usually increases in situations of excitement and stress. Systemic conditions such as diabetes and thyroid disorders can also lead to generalized body sweating.

How to Prevent Excessive Sweating and What Are the Treatment Methods?

Antiperspirants

Antiperspirants containing aluminum should be used as the first treatment option. Aluminum salts accumulate in the sweat gland channels and block sweating. Over time, sweating decreases, and treatment may no longer be necessary. The most significant side effect of these preparations is irritation, especially in the armpits. This side effect can be prevented by reducing the frequency of use or by applying medications (such as cortisone creams) to prevent redness and irritation. Antiperspirants should be applied 7 to 10 hours before bedtime. Applications should be done daily for the first week and then reduced to once a week, completing the treatment in 3 weeks.
Iontophoresis
Iontophoresis is a method that has been used for about 50 years, although its mechanism is not fully understood. During the treatment, an electrical current is passed through the skin via water, reducing sweating. Each session lasts 15 to 20 minutes. Initially, 2 to 3 sessions per week are performed, and later, depending on the response from the patient, the treatment continues every 1 to 3 weeks.
Systemic Treatment
Oral anticholinergic drugs that reduce sweating can be used. However, this is not the preferred treatment option. These drugs have side effects such as dry mouth, insomnia, and blurred vision.
Botulinum Toxin Treatment
Botulinum toxin (BoNT-A) treatment is an aesthetic procedure that can be performed under local anesthesia. Botulinum toxin is a toxin produced by a bacteria with seven different types. It works by temporarily paralyzing the nerve endings to prevent sweating. In cosmetic applications, it is used to treat wrinkles, some neurological muscle spasms, and headaches, as well as to treat strabismus in the eyes, anal fissures in surgery, and more recently, excessive sweating. Since sweating in the hands and feet can be painful, more detailed nerve blocks are required for these areas. However, for armpit applications, creams that reduce pain may be sufficient. The effects of botulinum toxin in treating sweating last for 4 to 5 months. After the procedure, sweating significantly decreases, improving the patient's social life.

When Should Botox Not Be Used?

BoNT should not be used in individuals allergic to human albumin. In neurological diseases such as multiple sclerosis, Botox can increase muscle weakness, making its use risky. It should not be used in pregnant or breastfeeding women. It should also not be applied in individuals with underlying systemic diseases. Since botulinum toxin can enhance the muscle-relaxing effects of certain medications, it should not be used together with them. Botox is contraindicated if there is an infection at the injection site, bleeding disorders, or if the person is using blood-thinning medications. There is no specific age limit for botulinum toxin applications; however, aesthetic procedures are generally more appropriate for adults.

Last Updated Date: 21 September 2023

Publication Date: 21 September 2023

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