latendressef@gmail.c
1 Answer
Colleen
Excessive sweating or hyperhidrosis occurs when the body sweats more than is necessary to control its temperature. It is not very common, as less than one percent of people suffer with this condition. While the sweating can occur all over the body, it is most common on the feet, hands, and underarms.
This condition typically starts early in life during adolescence — less than five percent of cases begin in adulthood. Interestingly, it occurs almost 20 times more frequently in people of Japanese descent. While most cases have no clear explanation for the increased sweating, there are a number of conditions that can lead to this problem. They include an overactive thyroid, diabetes, gout, menopause (though this is usually of a limited duration), alcohol, and certain drugs. Treatment is aimed at correcting the underlying problem, if one is identified. If no explanation is uncovered, treatment includes the use of topical agents such as 20 percent aluminum chloride and oral medications that work on the nervous system, which is responsible for the sweating. The bad news is that these medications can have many side effects, particularly in the elderly.
Other approaches include iontophoresis, in which an electrical current is applied over the skin, and most recently, injection of botulinum toxin in the region of the armpit (the toxin works to block the release of a chemical in the body that drives sweat production). A visit with her physician would result in choosing the best approach, taking into account any other medical problems your mother-in-law may have.
Learn more in the Everyday Health Senior Health Center.
| 12 years ago. Rating: 1 | |
