If you are struggling to cope with an excessive amount of underarm perspiration, you may be afflicted by a condition referred to as hyperhidrosis.
This is an embarrassing problem, and one that can have a major impact on both your personal and work relationships.
Not only is the dampness extremely uncomfortable, it can also be a condition that other people view with displeasure, sweat rings and the related odor are never viewed in a positive light.
If after trying out various treatments the problem has not disappeared, it may be time to consider armpit sweating surgery.
At the initial stage, it is essential that you make an appointment to see your family doctor.
They will be able to analyze the amount you sweat to determine whether or not the perspiration level is abnormal.
A GP will want to know what treatments you have already tried, and also diagnosis the exact cause of the condition.
For example, hyperhidrosis may be due to genetic factors, or underlying medical ailments such as diabetes, stress, obesity, or diet.
Your GP may refer you to a specialist dermatologist who would be able to explain to you more clearly the possible surgical options that would bring an end to the underarm perspiration.
An operation would usually involve the removal of the sweat glands, this is a treatment that cannot be reversed after it has taken place.
It is possible to have a liposuction procedure that will actually suck out the sweat glands that are present in the armpits.
There is the option of ETS surgery.
This is a drastic step and one which should not be chosen light-heartedly.
There are some risks involved with any surgical procedures, because of this, you should be made aware of any potential side effects before agreeing to undergo the knife.
ETS, or Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy, involves interrupting or severing the nerve signals that are carried from the sweat glands to the spinal column and into the brain.
There is a small chance of this operation resulting in what is known as compensatory sweating, whereby another area of the body will have a greater amount of perspiration than previously.
In virtually all patients, hyperhidrosis can be cured by armpit sweating surgery, the unpleasant smell and odor will never occur again.
As long as you are fully aware of the consequences of opting for a surgical procedure, and have already tried out all over options, it may be the best chance you have of returning to a normal life devoid of embarrassment.