|
What is Hyperhidrosis?
Hyperhidrosis is a condition involving excessive sweating
of the hands, face, underarms, and feet. Hyperhidrosis is
very common, occurring up to 1% of the population. The control
is by the sympathetic nervous system. In the case of Hyperhidrosis,
the sympathetic nerves are unpredictable and completely uncontrollable.
 |
|
This obviously generates enormous anxiety, self-esteem
problems and compromising social and professional activities.
|
What is the treatment?
At present, the most effective treatment for hyperhidrosis
is ETS (Endoscopic Thoracic
Sympathectomy). It is performed by cutting the sympathetic
nerve at a precise location, as it crosses the second rib.
The lungs are not collapsed. Both sides are operated
at the same time with a minimal incision. All Kuntz nerves
are removed.
 |
|
The patients are discharged home the same day and experience
a quick return to their normal activities.
|
What are the results?
Our success for sweaty palms is over 99% and 95% for axillary
hyperhidrosis. Foot hyperhidrosis has a success rate around
50% with most patients experiencing some degree of improvement.
Facial sweating 95% and facial blushing 90%. Raynaud’s
improvement is seen between 80-90%.
 |
|
The symptoms improve immediately and as soon as the
anesthesia wears off, the patient realizes that the
excessive sweat has vanished. These effects are sustained
over time.
|
Are there any
other treatments?
In most cases, medical treatment only alleviates symptoms
generated by mild forms of hyperhidrosis. Some of the treatments
include, astringents, talc/starch, sedatives, antihistamines,
anticholinergics and beta blockers. More aggressive therapies
include: liposuction, botulinum toxin and iontophoresis. They
all have been applied ranging degrees of success. However
affected patients with severe forms of hyperhidrosis require
ETS to cure their symptoms.
|
