Overcoming Sweaty Hands: Effective Strategies and Medications

Many people understand the discomfort of sweaty palms during stressful situations. However, excessively sweaty hands, medically known as palmar hyperhidrosis, can be a frustrating and embarrassing chronic condition. Fortunately, a variety of strategies and hyperhidrosis treatment medication are available to mitigate the problem.

Lifestyle Changes

Simple lifestyle changes can help manage sweaty hands. Dip your hands in cold water or use a cool towel to reduce sweating. Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet, avoiding spicy foods and alcohol that may exacerbate sweating. There are over-the-counter antiperspirant sprays specifically designed for hands which can provide temporary relief. McGloin Antiperspirant Lotion is an example of such a product.

Oral Medications

Your primary health care provider may prescribe oral medications as a part of your hyperhidrosis treatment medication plan. Two common types of perspiration-control drugs are anticholinergic drugs and beta blockers. Anticholinergic drugs such as glycopyrrolate and oxybutynin work by blocking the sweat glands. Beta blockers like propranolol can help with stress-induced sweating by decreasing the body’s adrenaline production.

Topical Treatments

Over-the-counter antiperspirants containing aluminum chloride can be effective by blocking sweat ducts. If this is insufficient, talk to your dermatologist about stronger prescription antiperspirants such as DrySol. These can be used as an effective part of an overall hyperhidrosis treatment medication plan.

Iontophoresis Therapy

Iontophoresis is a non-invasive method that involves passing a mild electrical current through water to your palms to temporarily block the sweat glands. This method has proven effectiveness for palm and sole hyperhidrosis.

Botox Injections

Botulinum toxin type A, commonly known as Botox, has been approved by the FDA for excessive underarm sweating and can be used off-label for palmar hyperhidrosis. Botox works by blocking a neurotransmitter that stimulates sweat production. The effects of treatment are temporary and need to be repeated every few months.

Surgical Intervention

For severe cases, surgery may be an option. A procedure called endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) involves cutting or clamping the nerves that control sweat production. This is usually the last resort as it can cause side effects, including compensatory sweating in other parts of the body.

Dealing with Hyperhidrosis

Dealing with sweaty hands requires patience and trial-and-error to find the most effective treatment. Whether the solution is a lifestyle change, iontophoresis therapy, or a specific hyperhidrosis treatment medication, note that treatments vary in effectiveness from person to person. Always consult with a healthcare professional to weigh all options and find the most appropriate treatment for your condition.