Hand Sweating

‘Palmar hyperhidrosis’ is the medical term for uncontrollable excessive sweating of the hands or palms. We all sweat to a certain extent and when we’re stressed or hot, it gets worse. But for those who suffer from palmar hyperhidrosis, the amount of sweat is excessive and it continues even when the weather is cool and the person is not especially stressed.

This medical condition is an extremely stressful and embarrassing. When the hands are wet with sweat all the time, it can be difficult to hold things such as pens or tools. Having to shake hands is embarrassing as you don’t want the other person to have to wipe their hand. Even writing can be awkward, leaving damp prints on paper. People suffering from palmar hyperhidrosis are often frustrated and keen to find a solution.

A number of suggestions can be tried to reduce the amount your hands sweat:

• Antiperspirants to try and reduce the sweating. A spray can be easy to use on the hands and can help reduce sweating. For more severe sweating, higher strength preparations are available over the counter or even on prescription from a doctor.
• Iontophoresis is a treatment that uses special equipment. This may be offered on referral or some patients can purchase systems suitable for use at home
  The above don’t always work.

To stop sweating for months at a time, there are now injections for sweating that stop hand wetness for 6-7 months. This treatment is not widely available as BOTOX® for hyperhidrosis (botulinum toxin) is a medication which requires a prescription. The treatment can only now be carried out in CQC registered clinics.

However, at Cosmedics Skin Clinics, the team has a number of doctors who can prescribe this treatment where appropriate.