Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition in which there is excessive sweating especially on the forehead, in underarms and on the palms. While this condition is not serious, it can cause considerable social embarrassment. There are some medical conditions which are associated with excessive sweating or hyperhidrosis, such as obesity, diabetes and a family tendency to excessive sweating. However, most people who present with excessive sweating do not have any of these risk factors. Stress is also an important factor, since most people note excessive sweating at times of increased stress, such as public speaking, important office meetings, and other such important occasions. There is no cure for this condition in modern medicine; however, Botox injections give temporary relief for about two or three months.
Ayurvedic herbal treatment is of prime importance in the treatment of hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating. Treatment is aimed at giving symptomatic relief as well as treating any known cause for the disease. Special consideration needs to be given for the management of stress. In addition, Ayurvedic treatment for hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating is aimed at correcting any possible abnormalities in the ‘meda’ (fat) tissue as well as treating high levels of pitta in the body. In addition, treatment also needs to be given for the correction of neurological abnormalities related to excessive sweating. Primarily, it is believed that the autonomous nervous system is overactive, leading to excessive sweating. This over-activity of the nervous system is corrected with the appropriate Ayurvedic medicines.
Hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating is normally believed to be refractory to known treatments, both conventional as well as Alternative. Ayurvedic medicines have overall so far proved to be quite effective in the treatment of excessive sweating; however, treatment needs to be taken regularly for several months, usually about six months. Individuals affected with this problem who are extremely prone to stress and have undermined confidence can also be given medicines to treat these problems. Lessening of stress and boosting of confidence with the appropriate medicines can considerably improve the quality of life of people affected with hyperhidrosis. Increased confidence and low stress levels can also improve hyperhidrosis to a considerable extent.
The writer, Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at www.ayurvedaphysician.com
