Hyperhidrosis (Sweaty Palms)
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Hyperhidrosis (Sweaty Palms)
Hyperhidrosis is a condition which causes excessive sweating that can occur in specific areas or throughout the body. In the case of palmar hyperhidrosis, the sweat glands in the palms become overactive, often leading to sweaty, damp hands even in cool conditions.
Although sweating is typically a response to temperature changes or emotional stimuli, hyperhidrosis causes the sweat glands to function excessively without such triggers. This can interfere with daily tasks, social interactions, and overall comfort.
What Causes Sweaty Palms?
Sweaty palms are most commonly broken into primary and secondary hyperhidrosis.
- Primary Hyperhidrosis: This type has no specific cause. It is often due to overactive nerves stimulating the sweat glands in the palms, underarms, soles, or face. This type can also have a genetic component, as it tends to run in families.
- Secondary Hyperhidrosis: Secondary hyperhidrosis is typically a result of an underlying medical condition. It may be caused by thyroid disorders, diabetes, menopause, certain infections, or as a side effect of medications, such as antidepressants. In secondary hyperhidrosis, sweating may occur throughout the body rather than in localised areas.
Symptoms of Hyperhidrosis
The most apparent symptom of palmar hyperhidrosis is the persistent and excessive sweating of the hands. Additional symptoms might include:
- Clammy or wet hands even without physical exertion
- Difficulty gripping objects or using electronic devices
- Discomfort in social situations due to wet or damp handshakes
- Irritation or breakdown of the skin on the palms due to prolonged exposure to moisture
These symptoms can vary in intensity, sometimes making it difficult to perform tasks or affecting self-confidence in social settings.
Sweaty Palms Treatment: How to Cure Sweaty Hands Permanently
Several treatment options are available for managing sweaty palms, but only a few offer a permanent solution. Treatments are generally categorised based on their effectiveness and permanence.
Sympathectomy (Sweaty Palm Surgery)
A sympathectomy is a procedure that is often considered the most effective long-term solution for sweaty palms. In this surgery, the surgeon cuts or clamps the nerves in the chest that control sweating, blocking the signals from the brain that cause excessive sweating in the palms. This treatment is usually recommended when other options haven’t worked, as it is a more invasive procedure.
Iontophoresis
This treatment involves immersing the hands in water while a mild electrical current is passed through. It temporarily reduces sweating by interfering with the sweat glands’ activity. Although it can be effective, iontophoresis requires multiple sessions per week, and its effects are not permanent.
Antiperspirants and Topical Treatments
Prescription-strength antiperspirants, such as those containing aluminium chloride, can sometimes help reduce sweat production when applied to the palms. Other topical treatments, such as antihydral and glycopyrrolate creams, may also be used to manage symptoms. However, these are temporary solutions and typically need to be applied regularly.
Sweaty Palm Surgery (Sympathectomy)
Sympathectomy is a surgical option for patients who have not achieved relief from non-surgical treatments. During this procedure, the surgeon will either cut or clamp the sympathetic nerve chain, which is located inside the chest and controls the body’s fight-or-flight response. By disrupting these nerves, the surgeon effectively stops the nerve signals that trigger sweating in the palms.
Sympathectomy is considered a permanent solution, with a high success rate for managing palmar hyperhidrosis. However, it is usually only recommended when other treatments, such as iontophoresis, are ineffective or inconvenient for the patient.
Can Hyperhidrosis Come Back After Surgery?
While sympathectomy is generally effective, there is a possibility that compensatory sweating may develop in other areas of the body, such as the back or thighs. This occurs when the body compensates for the lack of sweating in the treated area. Although it doesn’t happen to everyone, compensatory sweating can be bothersome for some patients. However, the risk of sweaty palms returning after surgery is low, making sympathectomy an effective long-term solution for many people.
Hyperhidrosis (Sweaty Palm) Surgery Cost In Singapore
The recommended surgeon’s fee for a unilateral hyperhidrosis surgery in Singapore ranges from $1,853 to $2,943 at private hospitals. This cost covers the surgeon’s expertise but excludes additional hospital and consumable fees, which can vary based on the facility and specific requirements of the procedure.
Sweaty Palm Specialist In Singapore
At O2 Lung Centre, our team comprises specialised cardiothoracic surgeons with deep expertise and advanced training to deliver comprehensive and personalised care for patients seeking treatment for hyperhidrosis, including sweaty palms. With considerable experience in minimally invasive procedures like sympathectomy, they offer tailored solutions to effectively manage excessive palm sweating, helping patients regain comfort and confidence in their daily lives.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, please WhatsApp us at our Gleneagles Hospital clinic or Mount Elizabeth Orchard Hospital clinic today. Our surgeons are here to help you take the next step towards a sweat-free life.