Hyperhidrosis is a condition that is characterized by excessive and unpredictable high levels of sweating. It is a medical condition that results in the patient to sweat unusually amounts even in cool temperatures or when resting. Hyperhidrosis can be caused by certain factors in life such as psychological, emotional, and social difficulties and imbalances. Certain foods and drinks may also cause the onset of this particular problem along with over-activity of the nervous system. Hyperhidrosis usually causes sweaty palms and feet. This can be a major cause of embarrassment or anxiety for many sufferers in a public, social, or business setting.
Depending on the severity of your sweating, there are a couple of different treatment options. A relatively effective and convenient treatment is called Iontophoresis. Treatments can be conducted in a doctors office or at home. I was skeptical when I first tried Iontophoreisis for my sweating feet. After doing about 6 straight treatments, I slowly started realizing my feet were not sweating. Now i only do treatments to maintain the dryness. In this article, I will be discussing what the treatment is all about, how it is carried out, its potential benefits/side effects, and its success and effectiveness.
What is Iontophoresis Treatment?
Iontophoresis is a safe and effective treatment that can be used to reduce excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) of the hands, feet and underarms. Iontophoresis is relatively risk free medical procedure that involves sending moderate electrical currents through water and into the skin. It’s mostly used to treat excessive sweating.During Iontophoresis, a specially designed medical device provides electrical currents, which are mild in nature, while the affected body part is immersed in water. The currents are often delivered to the hands, feet, or armpits to block the sweat glands briefly. Some patients might feel a slight tingling feeling during the procedure, but the electrical current isn’t strong enough to shock the sufferer. Most devices, let the user adjust the power level for comfort.
There are no serious side effects and the advantages are usually long-term, given that the patient keeps up with the continuation schedule the doctor recommends. On most home devices, treatment is usually repeated daily for 7-10 days until the required results are accomplished. Once decent levels of dryness have been reached, treatment is usually done about 1 or 2 times a week to maintain dryness. Those treatments to maintain dryness varies with each individual. Each session usually lasts for about 15 minutes. To preserve sweat relief, Iontophoresis treatments needs to take place consistently in order to avoid the return of previous levels of abnormal sweating.
Advantages of Iontophoresis Treatment
The treatment has proven to be extremely effective with a high percentage of patients. Excessive seating has been shown to decrease substantially due to this treatment.
There are virtually no side-effects associated with this treatment. Very high number of positive reviews of patients that have undergone this treatment shows that it is safe and reliable.
Disadvantages of Iontophoresis Treatment
Iontophoresis is widely regarded a safe form of treatment, and side effects are normally limited to moderate “pins and needles” sensations and mild coloring of the skin. In very few instances, painful stinging, itching, and mild shocks can also be experienced by the patient.
For most sufferers, the initial first sessions are slightly uncomfortable, but not painful. A great deal depends on the Iontophoresis treatment device being used and the type of current – pulsed current is generally viewed as the better option due to less irritation as compared to direct current.
Also, implementation of a jelly based product on any exposed cut/rash on the site of the area being treated can substantially reduce the discomfort or pain.
People Who Should Avoid Iontophoresis Treatment
While this treatment is considered quite safe and has minimal side effects, there are still some types of people who should avoid the treatment. There are listed as follows.
Patients with Cancer
Patients with Epilepsy
Patients with a Cardiac Pacemaker
Patients with Metal Implants
Top Home Iontophoresis Machines
Some of the most well-known and trusted devices for Iontophoresis treatment are as follows. Most of these devices range from $300-$1000. Some devices may prove to be expensive but can be seen as a good investment as they can last years without malfunction. Also, be aware that some devices are FDA approved and some are not. For a detailed review and for my top picks, click here
Fischer Galvanic MD $825.00
Hidrex DVP1000 $950.00
Idromed 5 PC $599.00
- Drionic- Hand/Foot $199.00 (battery operated)
At first glance, these devices be seem expensive for some people. The benefits outweigh the cost in my opinion. These devices will last you for years and years. The relief and piece of mind they provide is priceless. For those who believe it still too expensive, some are covered by insurance.
Success of the Treatment
For individuals with hyperhidrosis of the hands and feet, Iontophoresis treatments have shown to substantially decrease high levels of unusual sweating.One study found that Iontophoresis helped 91% of patients with excessive hand and feet sweating, which is sweating of the palms and feet. After completing the initial recommended treatment schedule, up to 85% of people will find relief from their symptoms for the hands and feet