What Is Hyperhidrosis?
Sweating is the body’s natural cooling mechanism. However, sometimes a person may suffer from excessive, uncontrollable sweating, unrelated to outside temperature or intensity of exercise. This condition is known as hyperhidrosis. Not only can it make daily tasks more difficult, but may cause anxiety and stress in social settings that often leads to even further perspiration. If you are experiencing symptoms of hyperhidrosis, know that you are not alone. Nearly eight million Americans suffer from some form of hyperhidrosis, yet only 38 percent may seek medical attention.*
There are four types of hyperhidrosis: axillary (underarms), facial, plantar (bottoms of the feet) and palmar (palms of the hands). At The Thoracic Group, we focus on the treatment of palmar hyperhidrosis. It is a medical condition characterized by extreme, disruptive perspiration of the hands triggered by signals sent from sympathetic nerves in your spine that control sweating in your hands.
The exact cause is still unknown, however many individuals suffering from hyperhidrosis begin experiencing symptoms at puberty. Those suffering from palmar hyperhidrosis may notice sweat actually dripping from their hands, making it particularly inhibitive to continue with daily life.
What Are Some Common Treatments?
Many hyperhidrosis sufferers turn to creams, powders and prescription-strength deodorants for relief from the condition. Others have found that Botox® also helps alleviate symptoms as it blocks the sympathetic nerves from sending signals to sweat glands. However, over time, these treatments have been shown to lose efficacy, particularly for those who have suffered since puberty.
Why Thoracic Group Surgeons?
Our board certified surgeons have more than 20 years’ experience in minimally invasive surgery in the chest, having performed more than 6000 Video Assisted Thoracic Surgery procedures. Using this technology, we provide long-term, instant results for the treatment of palmar hyperhidrosis through a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure called Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy.
Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy functions by interrupting the nerve signals that travel to the affected areas (hands). The procedure results in the hands transforming from cool, clammy and wet to immediately warm and dry. It is performed as a same-day procedure in the hospital. Patients are able to return to the comfort of their home within just a few hours following treatment. This time-proven procedure is also covered by health insurance.
With Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy, patients will see an immediate change in the sweating of their hands, whereas other treatments simply mask the symptoms. The procedure is performed by two board certified thoracic surgeons working collaboratively throughout the entire process, which results in safer procedures and quicker recovery. Thoracic Group surgeons were among the first in the world to perform minimally invasive procedures in the chest. Our patients can rest assured that they are in good hands and will be able to return to an even fuller life without the disruption of undue sweating.
To learn more about how you can be on your way to a lifetime free of excessive, uncontrolled sweating, call us at (732) 247-3002.
*Source: www.sweathelp.org
