What causes Excessive Sweat?

Sweat can occur in many different areas on the body. Most commonly, hyperhidrosis occurs on the palms of the hands. In such cases, this condition is known as Palmar Hyperhidrosis. But hyperhidrosis is not just limited to the hands, it can also occur on the face, the soles of the feet (plantar), and in the armpits (axillae).

Regardless of where it occurs, excessive sweating presents an incredible problem to those living with the condition. When the act of shaking hands presents a problem, business and day-to-day life can become very uncomfortable. Many patients report that they are even embarrassed to hold the hands of those they love and those they are closest to. Some patients report that the sweat prevents them from being as sociable as they would like to be, as they are forced to hide in the shadow of hyperhidrosis. Other problems occur such as smeared ink when writing or an inability to use electronic devices such as keyboards and computers. Hyperhidrosis can extremely affect people socially and functionally in their everyday lives. Thankfully, there is a permanent surgical cure for the condition.

Hyperhidrosis is not a temporary condition. Many people who suffer from it have suffered for many years, usually since childhood. Also, whether living in a hot or cold climate, patients who experience hyperhidrosis experience constant sweating.

Causes of Excessive Sweating

While doctors don't know why excessive sweating starts, the most likely cause is a genetic one. They have successfully linked it to over-activity in the sympathetic nervous system. Specifically, it is the Thoracic Sympathetic Ganglion Chain, which runs along the vertebra of the spine inside the chest cavity.

This chain controls the glands, known as the apocrine and eccrine glands, responsible for perspiration throughout the entire body. The eccrine sweat glands are mainly concentrated in the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. In most cases, the hands and feet are affected. To a lesser degree, the face and armpit (axillae) regions are affected. Another manifestation of the hyperactive sympathetic activity is facial blushing.

Sometimes people sweat heavily because of other illnesses such as hyperthyroidism, psychiatric disorders, menopause and obesity. These causes must first be ruled out before Primary Hyperhidrosis can be diagnosed.

The iontophoresis-treatment with Idromed® 4 is performed using hand- and foot-baths. The affected parts of the body are put in a treatment basin, filled with usual tap water. A weak DC electrical current is conducted through the baths by electrodes. This current is increased gradually to a certain intensity, so that the patient experiences a pleasant tingling sensation. The weak current inhibits the secretion of the sweat glands without damaging the glands themselves.  In the armpits the current is applicator via wet sponge electrodes. The water basins conveniently fold away to a strong storage container. In the early stages of treatment, the affected parts of the body should be treated once a day for about 10-15 minutes. Generally 10 - 15 treatment sessions are sufficient to normalize the moisture content of the skin. After that the treatment frequency can usually be reduced to once or twice a week or less frequently when required.

The Idromed4 is a unique electronic iontophoresis treatment device for hyperhidrosis, while other brands deliver an often uncomfortable electric shock when entering or exiting the water baths (similar to an electric fence shock,) the Idromed4's unique design over comes this annoying and uncomfortable problem.

Irdromed4 is available worldwide by express air courier delivery that is offered free of charge, a saving of between $75-$95 USD.  There are many imitation, new and unproven products on the market.  The Idromed4 is the highest medical quality device with added electronic safety features built into the device.  The Idromed4 is only available in 230v European style power.  Customers in 110-130v locations such as the USA and Japan will need to use a "step-up" power transformer to convert 110v to 230v. Please note this is the DC current version, a less powerful AC version is also available on request. PLEASE NOTE: Arm pit electrode pads are an OPTIONAL accessory and must be ordered separately if required, under "spare parts" in our shop.