The Effects of Iontophoresis

Iontopheresis is a therapeutic medical procedure which reduces excessive sweat in patients with hyperhidrosis. The treatment is FDA-approved and considered safe. However, doctors do not recommend it for patients who are pregnant, have cancer, a cardiac pacemaker, metal implants or skin conditions needing treatment. Iontophoresis has a high success rate with immediate results. However, some patients may experience mild negative side effects.

Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition that causes excessive sweat. The body produces sweat as a cooling mechanism or a psychological response to emotional stress. Patients, with hyperhidrosis, sweat unpredictably and produce more amounts required to cool the body.The two types of hyperhydrosis are focal and generalized. Focal hyperhidrosis is considered genetic and it affects the hands, feet and underarms. Generalized hyperhidrosis results from a pre-existing medical condition and affects larger areas of the body. Complications such as nail fungal infection, bacterial infection, warts, skin conditions, and social awkwardness can develop when the condition goes untreated.

Procedure

Iontophoresis is a non-invasive procedure which treats excessive sweating in the hands and feet.The treatment blocks sweat gland production by delivering low-level electric currents through water. The patient immerses his hands into water for 15 to 30 minutes as a small device sends electric currents through the water. Initially, treatments are repeated every other day, for a period of 10 days, until sweat levels are reduced. The treatment sessions are then gradually reduced from weekly to monthly sessions for maintenance.

Positive Effects

Iontophoresis has a 83% success rate and shows immediate sweat reduction. The treatment helps the patient regain confidence in daily activities normally affected by excessive sweating, and it alleviates social anxiety. Iontophoresis also reduces chances of complications which could occur when the condition is not treated.

Side Effects

Side effects include cracked skin, blisters, hand muscle weakness and headaches. Discomfort resulting from dry skin side effects may respond to treatment with topical ointments and moisturizers.