Q: I have a really embarrassing problem: excessive perspiration. My doctor says surgery is the only solution, but is there another option?
You have got something called hyperhidrosis, or abnormal sweating. One percent of the general population has hyperhidrosis, which typically affects the scalp, face, armpits, trunk or feet. By far the most distressing area is the hands, because they are used socially much more than any other part of the body.
Some of my patients' hands literally drip perspiration.Dr. Rafael Reisfeld, M.D., F.A.C.S. — Beverly Hills Center For Special Surgery
The symptoms usually start in childhood. Anyone can have hyperhidrosis, which is often genetic. You can try prescription-strength antiperspirants such as Maxim. Unfortunately, very little is known about alternative treatments — Dr. Eric Jones, N.D., a naturopathic physician at the Bastyr Center For Natural Health in Seattle, confirms that effective remedies are elusive.
I encourage my patients to try whatever treatments they can. Very few report success.Dr. Rafael Reisfeld
The best news for many people with hyperhidrosis is that it is not a 24-7 condition. Some people find that anxiety triggers episodes, but the sweating stops during sleep and comes and goes during the day.
The most effective treatment is a surgical procedure called endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS). The doctor attaches a small clip to a chest nerve that regulates sweating, blocking nerve messages and offering a permanent fix. It is performed endoscopically through a tiny incision. Although only a handful of surgeons perform the procedure — developed and perfected over the past 10 to 12 years — it does work.
Most of Dr. Reisfeld's patients can walk out of the office two hours after the surgery.Heart and Soul Magazine, June/July 2002