Excessive Hand Sweating Treatments and Tips for Managing Palmar Hyperhidrosis

Understanding Excessive Hand Sweating (Palmar Hyperhidrosis)

Excessive sweating of the hands, known medically as palmar hyperhidrosis, can be an embarrassing and inconvenient condition. The hands may feel uncomfortably wet frequently throughout the day, which can cause issues gripping objects, using electronics, or shaking hands with others.

What Causes Excessive Sweating of the Hands?

The main cause is overactive sweat glands in the hands. For most people, sweat glands activate as needed to cool the body down. But for those with palmar hyperhidrosis, the nerves continuously stimulate the sweat glands in the palms, triggering excessive sweat regardless of temperature or situation.

In addition to overactive nerves, contributing factors can include:

• Genetics
• Hormonal changes
• Stress and anxiety
• Caffeine, spicy foods, or other triggers
• Certain medical conditions or medications

Signs Your Sweating May Be Considered Excessive

Common signs of excessive hand sweating include:

• Frequently moist or dripping wet palms
• Difficulty holding onto objects like tools, utensils, or handrails
• Difficulty using electronics like phones or keyboards
• Discomfort shaking hands with others
• Frequent wiping or drying of the palms throughout the day

If these symptoms sound familiar and interfere with your daily activities, you may have palmar hyperhidrosis.

Treatment Options for Excessive Hand Sweating

If overactive sweat glands are causing embarrassment or disrupting your daily routine, know that effective treatments are available, including:

Antiperspirants

Clinical-strength antiperspirants containing aluminum chloride can help restrict sweat gland activity when applied nightly. Look for over-the-counter products containing 10-20% aluminum chloride formulated for palms and other areas prone to sweating.

Iontophoresis

Iontophoresis uses electric current to temporarily disable sweat glands. The hands are immersed in shallow trays of water for around 20 minutes while a mild electric current passes through. Treatments are typically needed every few days to control sweating.

Botox Injections

Botox injections use very small doses of purified botulinum toxin to block the nerves activating the sweat glands. When targeted properly, injections into the palms can cause dramatic reduction in hand sweating lasting several months per session.

MiraDry Treatment

The MiraDry device uses thermal energy to eliminate sweat and odor glands in the underarms and hands. While results can be long-lasting after 1-2 treatments, this non-invasive procedure only treats the specific area targeted by the device.

Prescription Medications

For severe cases of hyperhidrosis, oral medications may be prescribed to interrupt nerve signals to sweat glands. Side effects can occur with some medications, so discuss thoroughly with your doctor.

Best Practices for Managing Sweaty Hands

In addition to medical treatments, you can help manage sweaty hands day-to-day with the following tips:

Wear Gloves

Moisture-wicking gloves can make daily tasks more comfortable while concealing wet palms. Opt for gloves made with breathable fabrics that resist absorbing moisture.

Apply Antiperspirant Frequently

Carry a clinical-strength antiperspirant containing aluminum chloride to apply 2-3 times per day. Reapplying often can help compensate for hand washing or wiping that removes antiperspirant.

Carry Extra Handkerchiefs

Keep thin, absorbent handkerchiefs handy to discreetly wipe moisture from the palms when needed throughout the day. Rotate handkerchiefs frequently to allow them to dry out.

Avoid Triggers

Hot rooms, spicy foods, caffeine, and stress can all exacerbate sweating. Avoid or moderate these triggers whenever possible.

Stay Cool

Heat triggers sweating, so use strategies like cold drinks, air conditioning, cooling wrist bands, avoiding hot rooms, and wearing breathable clothing that allows airflow near the hands.

When to See a Doctor

Consult your doctor if excessive hand sweating is:

• Severely impacting your work performance, relationships, or mental health
• Not improving with over-the-counter antiperspirants
• Occurring along with other medical symptoms

A dermatologist can assess the severity of your symptoms, rule out underlying conditions, and discuss prescription-strength treatments tailored for palmar hyperhidrosis.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.