Sweating

INTRODUCTION

Sweating, (excessive) perspiration, 399

GENERAL HYPERHIDROSIS

• Explanation and reassurance

• Trial of probanthine aluminium chloride 20% in alcohol solution if localised area

AXILLARY HYPERHIDROSIS

Treatment

• Explanation and reassurance

• See treatment of body odour ( 72)

• Aluminium chloride 20% in alcohol solution (Driclor, Hidrosol); apply nocte for 1 wk, then 1–2 times wkly or as nec.

• Oral anticholinergics (e.g. oxybutynin, propantheline) may help symptoms, but often poorly tolerated

SPECIALIST TREATMENTS

• Iontophoresis to hands and feet

• Injection of botulinum toxin into affected area

• Surgical sympathectomy for severe, recalcitrant cases