If you have a problem with sweaty palms, meeting new people and shaking hands is just one of the concerns you may experience. Also known as palm plantar hyperhidrosis, sweaty palms are the product of more than just a warm room. In fact, this condition can be triggered by stress or anxiety or even emotional problems. This can lead to social anxiety issues, especially if you find yourself embarrassed by your sweaty palms.
Other medical issues that can cause your palms to sweat include menopause, some psychiatric disorders and obesity. An overactive thyroid can also lead to excessive sweating. When looking for relief, you should know what options are available to you. Some suggestions are fairly simple and if effective can ensure alleviation in some of your symptoms and, ultimately, your social issues. Other treatments can become somewhat invasive and unpleasant. You can decide how far you want to go in treating this problem.
Medical Treatments
Some standard medical treatments have been found effective on sweaty palms. One method is Botox injections, which block neural control of the sweat glands and last from three to nine months. The injections are usually costly and can be painful. Another treatment involves destruction or removal of the sweat gland. Some techniques used for this are liposuction, sweat gland suction and Vaser or Laser Ablation. The sweat gland can also be removed through endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy, also known as ETS. This is a surgical procedure which can cut, burn, or clamp the nerve and can be reversed if needed.
While these methods might effectively treat your sweaty palms, other remedies can be just as effective without some of the devastating side effects associated with more invasive procedures. With some remedies as simple as putting corn starch or an antiperspirant on your hands, you are more likely to find something that works and costs less.
Natural Remedies
One means of treating sweaty palms is with baking soda. Its alkaline nature reacts with sweat to keep your hands dry. Just dissolve some in warm water and dip your hands in it. After soaking for a few minutes, your palms should be dry for the next few hours.
Baby powder is another good remedy if your sweating problems are minor.
Soaking your hands in tea may seem a little weird, but tea contains natural astringents called tannins. These tannins reduce sweating by shrinking your pores. Other types of astringents you can use are rubbing alcohol and witch hazel. Just wipe your hands with them before going into a sweaty situation. Having wipes on hand can help in tense moments as well.
Rosewater and vinegar can be combined and used as a natural antiperspirant that is effective against sweating. To use, mix equal parts together and swab on your hands every morning to control sweaty palms.
Soaking or scrubbing your palms with tomato juice can also be an effective deterrent against sweating. A method that has been used for centuries, the use of tomato juice is often recommended for those who experience excessive sweating.
Foods to Avoid
Some foods actually increase your body’s production of sweat. If you want to maintain control over your sweaty palms, you should avoid them or at least eat smaller quantities. Foods like garlic and onions can have an effect on how much you sweat. Consumption of alcohol should be kept to a minimum as it can also cause excessive sweating.
Foods with high quantities of iodine should be monitored closely. Iodine-rich foods like white onions, asparagus and broccoli can affect your sweat levels. While they are full of good nutrients, if you have a problem with sweaty palms, you should keep your intake of these foods to a minimum.
Sweaty palms don’t have to be an issue. Natural remedies can help you turn a potentially embarassing situation into a friendly, and dry, snap of your finger.