Hyperhidrosis is defined as excessive sweating beyond what would be expected for the local environment and is physiologically required by the body. The projected prevalence of hyperhidrosis in the United States is 2.8%. This means that 7.8 million American patients are struggling daily with excessive sweating that is interrupting their livelihood and daily interactions.
Hyperhidrosis (HH), excessive sweating beyond what is typical (based on the environment or what the body physiologically requires), afflicts an estimated 2.8% of Americans. It can affect localized parts of the body, such as hands, feet and underarms, or the entire body. Either way, those suffering from HH struggle daily to keep the condition from impacting their livelihoods and relationships. However, for approximately 25% of those suffering from hyperhidrosis, the impact goes deeper than embarrassment or a nuisance—the disease causes anxiety and depression.
According to a recent article published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology*, anxiety and depression were reported in 21.3% and 27.2% of patients, respectively, with HH compared to 7.5% and 9.7% in patients, respectively, without HH.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, depressive episodes can also be amplified in late fall and early winter with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression displaying a recurring seasonal pattern.
Patients can find relief from HH, and thus avoid episodes of anxiety and depression, with Daavlin’s Aquex, a “tap water iontophoresis” (TWI) system. TWI treatment consists of introducing the treatment area (hands or feet, for example) to water which has a mild and safe electrical current for short periods of time. Treatments only take about 15 minutes, and a reduction of symptoms will begin after just a few uses. Although many treatment methods are available for HH, TWI is widely considered to be one of the most effective, safest, and cost-effective treatment options available. It has been used to effectively manage hyperhidrosis for over 40 years. It is a superior option for long-term patient satisfaction, safety and treatment sustainability at a fraction of the cost of other options.
TWI is drug-free, safe and proven and has an effectiveness of 98% for hyperhidrosis sufferers. There is only a moderate initial cost for the device with very little maintenance. Ongoing costs are minimal.
Bahar R. The prevalence of anxiety and depression in patients with or without hyperhidrosis (HH). Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. October 2016.
