Tons of people around the world suffer from excessive sweating or hyperhidrosis. It is uncomfortable, but it can also signify that something is wrong with your health. While several treatments are available, many people don’t know what to do when they start sweating at night. Here are five things that you can get to help manage your sweating.
1. Antiperspirants
Antiperspirants are one of the most common treatments for sweating. They work by blocking your sweat glands and preventing you from sweating. There are different antiperspirants on the market, so it’s important to find one that works for you.
How to choose an antiperspirant :
- Look for an antiperspirant that contains aluminum chloride. This is the most effective ingredient for blocking sweat glands.
- Make sure the antiperspirant is unscented. Fragrances can irritate your skin and make sweating worse.
- Choose an antiperspirant that comes in a spray or roll-on. These are easier to apply and less likely to irritate your skin.
Pro tips:
- Apply antiperspirant at night before you go to bed. This gives it time to work and prevents you from sweating during the day.
- If you have sensitive skin, try an antiperspirant that contains propylene glycol. This ingredient is less likely to irritate.
- If you are looking for a natural alternative to antiperspirants, try using apple cider vinegar. Apply on your skin with a cotton ball before going to bed.
2. Anticholinergics
Anticholinergics are a medication used to treat many conditions, including excessive sweating. They work by blocking the chemical acetylcholine, which is responsible for sweating.
A few different anticholinergics are available, so it’s important to talk to your doctor about which one is right for you.
Side effects of anticholinergics:
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Urinary retention
- Blurred vision
- Drowsiness
Talk to your doctor before taking an anticholinergic if you have any of the following conditions:
- Asthma
- Urinary tract obstruction
- Glaucoma
- cardiovascular disease
Pro tip: Start with a low dose of medication and increase it gradually as needed. This will help you avoid side effects.
3. Botox
Botox is a type of injection used to treat a number of conditions, including excessive sweating. It temporarily paralyzes the muscles that are responsible for sweating.
Botox injections are usually given every six months to three years, depending on the severity of your sweating.
Side effects of Botox:
- Pain and swelling at the injection site
- Headache
- Flu-like symptoms
- Nausea
Talk to your doctor before getting Botox injections if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Pro tip: Botox injections can be expensive, so talk to your insurance company about coverage before getting treatment.
4. Surgery
Surgery is a last resort treatment for excessive sweating. It involves cutting or removing the sweat glands that are responsible for sweating.
Surgery is recommended for people who have tried other treatments and haven’t had success. It’s important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of surgery before deciding.
When to result in surgery:
- If antiperspirants and other treatments haven’t worked
- If you have a medical condition that is causing your sweating
- If your sweating is affecting your quality of life
Side effects of surgery:
- Pain and swelling at the incision site
- Infection
- Nerve damage
- Scarring
Pro tip: Surgery is a permanent solution to excessive sweating, so be sure you are ready for this commitment before treatment.
5. Portable spot cooler
If you are looking for a way to keep your body temperature cool without using medication, a portable spot cooler may be good.
The coolers work by circulating cold air around your body. They are small and easy to use, making them convenient to manage your sweating.
Side effects of spot coolers:
- They can be expensive
- They may not be as effective as other treatments
Pro tip: Spot coolers are a good option for people who have mild sweating or who don’t want to take medication. Talk to your doctor before using a cooler.
If you sweat excessively, several treatments can help. Antiperspirants, anticholinergics, Botox, surgery, and portable spot coolers are all options for excessive sweating. Learn about the risks and benefits of each treatment before deciding. With the right treatment, you can take control of your sweating and live a normal, healthy life.