Weaker forms of primary hyperhidrosis can be treated by suitably chosen hygiene, i.e. using antiperspirants, avoiding synthetic materials, using sweat-absorbing clothes and avoiding foods contributing to excessive sweating (e.g. alcohol and spicy foods). Other medical treatments include:
- Anticholinergic treatment
These drugs block acetylcholine produced by parasympathetic nervous system. Acetylcholine works as an activator of sweat glands and its blocking can significantly improve patient's condition over the next two weeks. However, it is necessary to expect possible side effects of the drugs.
- Botulotoxin treatment
Beside the ability to block muscle fibres, Botulotoxin can also block nerve impulses stimulating sweat glands and thus inhibit them. To achieve a desired effect, twelve injections are applied to the affected area and the effect can last from two to eight months.
- Surgical treatment
Surgical treatment is only recommended in serious cases where no other alternative is effective. It involves direct disconnecting of parasympathetic neural pathways which stimulate sweat glands. The nerves are disconnected endoscopically in the chest area. This surgical treatment is not suitable for feet treatment as it may result in permanent Sexual dysfunction.
- Iontophoresis
In hyperhidrosis treatment iontophoresis is used to block the function of sweat glands due to the effects of electric current which causes protein coagulation in sweat glands, thus leading to a decrease in sweat secretion.