Medical Therapy
There are many non-surgical alternatives to treat patients with hyperhidrosis. Some patients with hyperhidrosis have mild symptoms, which can be helped without the need for surgery. It is important to have a medical evaluation, to be certain that symptoms are not the result of an endocrine or hormonal imbalance, before trying any over-the-counter remedy. At the Center for Hyperhidrosis at Columbia University Medical Center, a team approach is used to evaluate and treat all patients with hyperhidrosis. Under the guidance of a board certified dermatologist, a trial of topical remedies may be recommended if they have not yet been tried. Botox® therapy can effectively treat palmar and axillary hyperhidrosis, however it is not a permanent solution and symptoms may recur after four or six months. Occasionally, temporary relief is only necessary, such as prior to a major social event. In those instances, Botox® therapy can be considered. Dr. Marc Grossman has many years of experience with Botox® therapy for both facial cosmetic procedures and the treatment of hyperhidrosis.

• Drysol
• Drionics®
• Herbal Therapy
• B-Blockers
• Botox® injections
• Anticholinergics
• Tap water ionotophoresis

Patients with severe symptoms who fail to respond to these non-surgical remedies can be referred for surgery.
 
Surgical Therapy
The goal of surgery is to eliminate the constant autonomic stimulation of the palmar sweat glands while maintaining other sympathetic nerve function, and minimizing trauma to the surrounding tissue. This is best accomplished by Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy, also known as ETS.

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