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Natural Remedies for Excessive Sweating

Sweating is a natural and necessary bodily function that helps regulate body temperature and remove toxins from the body.

However, some people may experience excessive sweating, a condition known as hyperhidrosis, which can be embarrassing and inconvenient. If you’re struggling with excessive sweating, you may be looking for natural remedies to help manage your symptoms.

One option you may want to consider is iontophoresis.

Here are five things you should know about using iontophoresis as a natural remedy for excessive sweating:

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What is

iontophoresis?

Iontophoresis is a non-invasive treatment that uses a low-level electrical current to deliver medication or other substances through the skin.

It’s typically used to treat hyperhidrosis in the hands, feet, or armpits.

How does

iontophoresis

work?

During an iontophoresis treatment, tap water is added to waterbath trays or spongepad attachments.

The patient then places their hands/feet in the waterbath trays, or positions the attachments under their arms. A mild electrical current is used to deliver the natural minerals found in tap water (Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, etc) into the sweat pores, “plugging them up” to create an all-natural dryness barrirer.

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What are the benefits of

iontophoresis?

Iontophoresis is a safe and effective treatment option for excessive sweating. It’s non-invasive, so there are no needles or incisions involved.

It’s also relatively painless and can be done in a doctor’s office or at home with the use of a portable device.

Is

iontophoresis

right for me?

Iontophoresis may be a good option for you if you have hyperhidrosis and other treatments, such as antiperspirants and prescription medications, have not been effective.

It’s important to speak with a healthcare provider to determine if iontophoresis is the right treatment for you.

What are the potential side effects of

iontophoresis?

What are the potential

side effects

of

iontophoresis?

Iontophoresis is generally well-tolerated, but some people may experience mild skin irritation or dryness at the site of treatment. These side effects are usually temporary and can be relieved with the use of a moisturizer.

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In conclusion, iontophoresis is a natural and non-invasive treatment option for those struggling with excessive sweating.

It’s important to speak with a healthcare provider to determine if it’s the right treatment for you and to discuss any potential side effects.

Wondering if iontophoresis is right for you?

The Fischer iontophoresis device delivers a safer, easier, and more effective treatment for palmar, plantar, and axillary hyperhidrosis patients.

Talk to a Treatment Specialist today to see why the Fischer iontophoresis device is the best treatment available for hyperhidrosis and to check insurance benefits.

→More about the Fischer

Contact us!

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How to Use a Female Catheter

How To Use A Female Catheter

Using an intermittent catheter can be an effective way for a female patient to manage urinary incontinence or difficulty urinating. Here is a brief overview of how a female patient might use an intermittent catheter:

STEP ONE

First, the patient should wash her hands thoroughly with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection.

STEP TWO

Next, the patient should find a comfortable, private place to insert the catheter. She may want to sit on the toilet or use a clean, flat surface such as a bathroom counter or bedside table.

STEP THREE

The patient should open the packaging for the catheter and assemble all of the necessary supplies, including lubricant, a sterile collection bag, and any other equipment recommended by her healthcare provider.

STEP FOUR

Catheters come either uncoated, hydrophilic, or pre-lubricated. The patient should apply lubricant to the catheter and gently insert it into the urethra. It is important to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer and to avoid forcing the catheter, as this can cause discomfort or injury.

STEP FIVE

Once the catheter is inserted, the patient should drain the urine into a toilet, or gently push down on the collection bag to allow urine to flow into it. She should empty the bag as needed, and dispose of it in a safe, hygienic manner.

STEP SIX

After the patient has finished urinating, she should carefully remove the catheter and dispose of it in a safe manner. She should then clean the area around the urethra with soap and water, and dry it thoroughly.

STEP SEVEN

It is important for the patient to follow her healthcare provider’s instructions for using and caring for the intermittent catheter. This may include regular cleaning and disinfection of the catheter and collection bag, as well as regular checkups to monitor for any potential complications.

In conclusion, using an intermittent catheter can be an effective way for a female patient to manage urinary incontinence or difficulty urinating. By following the steps outlined above and working closely with her healthcare provider, the patient can use the catheter safely and effectively.

3-Day Free Sample Pack

For patients looking to switch catheters, or who aren’t sure which catheter is right for them. Our Treatment Specialists curate every 3-day free sample pack around your needs.

Order Today!
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The Lifetime Ownership Cost of an Iontophoresis Device

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The Lifetime Ownership Cost of an Iontophoresis Device

Hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, is a common condition that can be embarrassing and disruptive to daily life. One treatment option for hyperhidrosis is iontophoresis, a non-invasive technique that uses a low-voltage electrical current to disrupt the sweat gland activity. While iontophoresis is an effective treatment for hyperhidrosis, it is important to consider the lifetime cost of ownership of the device.

The initial cost of an iontophoresis device can vary depending on the brand and features. Additionally, there may be additional costs for accessories such as replacement electrodes or towels.

If you have purchased a metal-based iontophoresis device, you will need to factor in the cost of ongoing maintenance and replacement. The aluminum or stainless steel electrodes on the device will need to be replaced periodically, with most manufacturers recommending replacement every three to six months. This can add an additional cost of $50 to $100 per year. In addition to the cost of replacement metal electrodes, you will also need to consider the cost of the towels and batteries used during iontophoresis treatments. 

 

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Lifetime Cost of The Fischer

Unlike "traditional" iontophoresis devices, The Fischer is a metal-free iontophoresis option, with non-corrosive silicone-graphite electrodes. This means no replacement costs for corroding metal electrode plates.

The one-time out-of-pocket cost for The Fischer varies according to the areas being treated and each patient’s insurance policy. Our Treatment Specialists can help review your options with you.

The Fischer is a hospital-grade iontophoresis device. The 60v main control unit plugs right into the wall. The shelf life of the blue pH-balancing foam inserts is 18-months and replacements can be purchased for just $3.

Overall, the lifetime costs of ownership of The Fischer device is considerably less than older metal-based iontophoresis options.

Wondering if iontophoresis is right for you?

The Fischer iontophoresis device delivers a safer, easier, and more effective treatment for palmar, plantar, and axillary hyperhidrosis patients.

Talk to a Treatment Specialist today to see why the Fischer iontophoresis device is the best treatment available for hyperhidrosis and to check insurance benefits.

→More about the Fischer

Contact us!

Common Mistakes Patients Make When Self-Catheterizing

Self-catheterization is a common practice for people with urinary incontinence or other conditions that affect the ability to urinate. This procedure is often performed by individuals with conditions that prevent them from fully emptying their bladder, such as multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, or urinary incontinence

While self-catheterization can provide a sense of independence and control over one’s own healthcare, it’s important to understand that it’s a medical procedure that requires careful attention to detail to avoid complications. In this article, we’ll discuss some common mistakes that patients make when self-catheterizing and offer tips on how to avoid them.

Cleaning

One of the most common mistakes that patients make when self-catheterizing is not properly cleaning the area around the urethra. This can lead to infection, which can be very serious and even life-threatening. To avoid this, it’s important to thoroughly clean the area around the urethra with soap and water before inserting the catheter. Be sure to rinse off all the soap and dry the area thoroughly before inserting the catheter.

Sizing

Another mistake that patients often make is not using the correct size of catheter. If the catheter is too small, it can cause discomfort and difficulty in insertion. On the other hand, if the catheter is too large, it can cause damage to the urethra. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the correct size of catheter for your specific needs.

Prepping

Some patients also make the mistake of not properly preparing the catheter before inserting it. This can lead to the catheter getting stuck or not working properly, which can be very frustrating and even dangerous. To avoid this, it’s important to carefully follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the catheter, and to make sure that the catheter is properly lubricated and ready for use before attempting to insert it.

Experiencing pain when inserting or removing your intermittent catheter?

It’s important to use plenty of lubrication on the catheter and the area around the urethra before inserting it.

There are several styles – from pre-lubricated to hydrophilic-coated catheters.

So start out with a 3-Day Free Sample Pack to decide which style is best for you.

Positioning

Another common mistake patients make is failing to properly position themselves during the procedure. It is important to sit on the toilet or a chair with a footstool, and to relax your pelvic muscles to make insertion easier. Some patients also find it helpful to take deep breaths and to use a mirror to guide the insertion of the catheter.

Disposal

Finally, some patients do not properly dispose of the catheter. Do not flush the catheter down the toilet as this can cause blockages. You’ll want to discard the catheter and packaging in a trash receptacle.

What Are the Different Sizes & Styles of Pediatric Intermittent Catheters?

Pediatric intermittent catheters are an important tool in managing the urinary incontinence of children. These catheters come in a variety of sizes and styles, each designed to suit the unique needs of a child.

In addition to size, pediatric intermittent catheters also come in a variety of styles. Some of the most common styles include straight tip catheters, coude tip catheters, and hydrophilic catheters.

Straight Tip

Straight tip catheters are the most basic style of intermittent catheter. They are designed with a simple, straight tip that allows for easy insertion into the urethra. These catheters are typically made of a flexible material, such as latex or silicone, which makes them comfortable to use.

Coude Tip

Coude tip catheters, on the other hand, are designed with a curved tip. This unique shape allows the catheter to navigate around any obstructions in the urinary tract, making them a good option for children with abnormalities or scarring in the urinary tract.

Hydrophilic Catheters

Hydrophilic catheters, also known as self-lubricating catheters, are coated with a special gel that makes them easy to insert. These catheters are particularly useful for children who have difficulty lubricating the catheter themselves or for those who may have limited dexterity in their hands.

It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best size and style of pediatric intermittent catheter for a child.
The provider will consider factors such as the child’s age, size, and any underlying medical conditions when making a recommendation.

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How Old Do You Have to Be to Use an Iontophoresis Device?

Iontophoresis devices with sophisticated safeguards like antishock software and intuitive user interfaces facilitate the safe use of electricity in today’s success stories. In fact, the The Fischer tap water iontophoresis device is approved for pediatric patients as young as 6-years-old. Here’s why.

Metal-Free

Any direct contact with aluminum or stainless-steel conductors results in skin burns when operating a traditional metal-based iontophoresis device. The Fischer’s use of silicone/graphite electrodes as well as insulated socket and connector systems provides protection for younger users, eliminating the possibility of open metal contact burns. 

Over the course of iontophoresis treatments, metal electrodes undergo an electrolytic dissolution process aka they release metal ions into the water. As the metal electrodes tarnish or become pitted, it reduces the treatment’s effectiveness. It’s another reason why younger patients with skin sensitivities or metal allergies were previously disqualified from being prescribed iontophoresis.  

Graphite, on the other hand, is considered to be an electrolytically inert material. The Fischer’s silicone-graphite electrodes are designed to be highly-conductive, abrasion resistant, durable, yet soft to the touch. They will not release metal ions into the water, which would have otherwise been delivered into your child’s skin. 

Safe Use of Electricity

Once a patient’s skin contact is recognized, The Fischer’s intelligent control software automatically initiates the treatment session. The current is slowly increased to the pre-set milliampere levels, allowing the body to comfortably acclimate. Before the treatment winds down, the milliamperes are gradually reduced. The device recognizes potential voltage peaks (the so-called electric fence effect) early on and intercepts this hazard with anti-shock guard software. The visual display not only shows the pre-set target value but also the actual flow of the electric charge. 

“If you’re starting with iontophoresis, start with Direct Current. Keep it simple. This is the most effective way to see results.”

– Dr. Rolf Eilers

Free Choice of Settings

Hyperhidrosis affects every patient uniquely, and therefore no iontophoresis treatment is one-size-fits-all. From the duration of the treatment, the strength of the current, to the type of current and direction of polarity, it’s important to personalize your device’s settings to your experience.

With The Fischer, the integration of Direct and Pulsed Current into one device opens up all possibilities to the user for conducting treatment according to their individual requirements. For patient’s with serious hyperhidrosis symptoms, or those looking achieve dryness as quickly as possible, Direct Current remains the preferred option for doctors like Dr. Rolf Eilers from Saalmann Medical.

“If you go to literature and clinical studies, Direct Current is really the most effective way to treat hyperhidrosis,” Dr. Eilers says. “With Pulsed Current, the Direct Current is switched on and off in very short cycles. This results in a different awareness of the electricity, a different feeling. Literature and clinical studies tell us that the efficacy is reduced. So I recommend that if you’re starting with iontophoresis, start with Direct Current. Keep it simple. This is the most effective way to see results.”

For patients with body resistance or sensitivity issues, switching to Pulsed Current is just a click away with The Fischer. Thanks to the integration of both modes of operation into one device, pediatric patients can optimize individual settings during the course of their treatment without having to decide beforehand upon the preferred equipment type.

“From my point of view, the most important thing in the beginning is to see results as soon as possible,” Dr. Eilers continues. “That’s why we recommend the Direct Current. [But] for patients who may only be able to tolerate 1-3mA, if you’re quite sensitive to that, the Pulsed Current might be more practical for you.”

Ease of Use

Setting up The Fischer is simple. The three-button interface and pictorial settings on the device’s screen are self-explanatory. Better yet: the device’s memory stores previous session data, allowing for a one-touch start. 

In-Office vs. At-Home Iontophoresis Treatments: Things Worth Considering

Does this sound familiar? 

“We’re up to treatment 3x times a week and she has only seem minimal improvements. What are the recommended treatment schedules? The clinic is an hour’s drive each way and is the only one in the state that does it.” 

That’s a transcript from a chat with an actual patient who was researching at-home iontophoresis options for his teenaged daughter. If it sounds familiar, know that you’re not alone. Some hyperhidrosis patients are introduced to iontophoresis via in-office treatments supervised by a physician, dermatologist, or podiatrist. But when it comes to time for at-home devices, what are some things worth considering?  

Personal Time

Because it is recommended that patients start out treating at least 3x a week, commuting into the medical clinic becomes a personal time investment. Consistency is key to seeing success, so patients will often opt for an at-home device to treat from the comfort of their living room.

Once dryness has been established, patients will have to continue treating with a maintenance phase. While that may be only one session every few weeks to months for some patients, having an at-home device means you are self-sufficient.

Different CPT Codes

The CPT Code or HCPS Code is required by insurance companies to identify the medical equipment. While in-office iontophoresis treatments fall under codes A9900 and A9999, any at-home iontophoresis device will fall under the E1399 code. This “miscellaneous durable medical equipment” designation requires DME companies, patients, or their providers to submit additional paperwork proving medical necessity. If that sounds confusing, don’t worry! Our Treatment Specialists here at RA Fischer can guide you through that process. 

Before you submit a prior-authorization or reimbursement requests to your insurance company, make sure you’re using the correct code. 

Mindset

For pediatric hyperhidrosis patients, a positive mindset can mean the difference between successful adoption of the treatment, and giving up. Being required to trek into a doctor’s office for regular sessions can hang a negative cloud over the experience. Treating at home, on the other hand, and being able to watch a favorite TV show or sports event, turns iontophoresis “treatments” into “investments” in your long-term health and wellness. Nobody complains about having to go to the spa, do they? Iontophoresis can and should be viewed the same way! 

If you are the parent or guardian of a child struggling with excessive sweating, a school nurse who has noticed a student exhibiting symptoms, or feel like you yourself may be living with hyperhidrosis undiagnosed, reach out to one of our Treatment Specialists. They can answer your questions and share other patient success stories. Believe us, we have heard it all, so never feel embarrassed to ask for help or seek other solutions.  

Straight Tip vs Coude Tip Catheters: Which Is the Right Choice for You?

Millions of people live with urinary incontinence and/or retention issues. To help alleviate symptoms, urologists often prescribe intermittent catheters. Patients will traditionally begin with a straight tip catheter. However, for those who may experience discomfort or regular urinary tract infections, a curved, or coude tip catheter may be the choice for you.

When Your Catheter Doesn’t Fit Quite Right

Whenever a straight tip catheter doesn’t fit quite right, our Treatment Specialsts recommend trying a sample of our coude tip catheters. Coude catheters are like their traditional straight tip counterparts, only they feature a curved, angled tip. This can improve and simplify the self-catheterization experience for patients who experience regular discomfort.

Coude tip catheters are most popular among male and pediatric patients. Other common medical issues that may require patients may make the switch from their straight tip catheter:

  • Cancer radiation in the pelvic area
  • Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
  • Urethral strictures or urethral trauma
  • Prostate surgery
  • Atrophic vagina
  • Stoma or false passages

Insurance Coverage for Coude Tips

Insurance companies like Medicare and Medicade that cover catheterizations also cover coude tip catheters. Your policy dictates what type of catheters and the monthly amount that will be covered. For example, Medicare covers 200 catheters monthly, allowing patients to self-cath up to 7x per day.

Insurance coverage for coude tip catheters, however, require additional documentation that outlines why the change from a straight tip is medically necessary. Some common reasons cited include discomfort and/or recurring infections. If you need a referral to a urologist to prescribe a coude tip catheter, contact our Treatment Specialists who can connect you with a telehealth provider.

Not sure what exactly your insurance covers? Our Treatment Specialists are here to help. We work with insurance companies on your behalf and can review your eligibility, including out-of-pocket options. Every patient is assigned a personal Treatment Specialists who serves as their single point of contact moving forward. Soon, you’ll probably be on a first name basis with them!

Different Types of Coude Tip Catheters

Our coude tip catheters are all made with the same chemical-free materials as straight tip catheters. They are DEHP/DINP & BPA-Free. There are several different varieties of coude tip catheters, including:  

  • Uncoated intermittent catheters are the starting point for most patients, allow you to control the exact amount of lubricant applied
  • Hydrophilic catheters, which feature a unique coating that self-lubricates the catheter upon exposure to water
  • Closed-system catheter kits also include a self-contained collection bag and are preferred by patients who have suffered spinal cord injuries or live with neurogenic incontinence.

Sample a Coude Tip Catheter

Here at RA Fischer, our Treatment Specialists can provide you with coude tip catheter samples so you can tangibly experience the differences firsthand. Our ordering process is 100% online, and with monthly subscriptions available, you can “set and forget” your essential urology supplies.  

Get started by reviewing your insurance coverage and/or out-of-pocket options with a Treatment Specialist today! 

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Why More Palmar-Plantar Patients Are Moving to Dual Iontophoresis Treatments

Why More Palmar-Plantar Patients Are Moving to Dual Iontophoresis Treatments

Patients diagnosed with hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, often struggle with palmar-plantar (hands and feet) symptoms the worst. Sweat can get in the way of daily activities, from shaking hands to completing homework without smudge marks.

Due to the constant evaporation, your hands may feel cold and clammy. Even grabbing slick objects might be challenging for you. On your feet, the constant wetness is a breeding ground for viral and bacterial infections, including athlete’s foot.

Forced to treat both hands and both feet, patients often require treatment times that are 2x as long compared to say axillary patients treating only their underarms. Speed, convenience, and effectiveness jettison to the top of the priority list when evaluating hyperhidrosis solutions.

That’s why more palmar-plantar patients are moving to dual iontophoresis treatments.

Speed

The Fischer is a hospital-grade device for tap water iontophoresis as seen in professional settings, medical practices, and homes around the world. The water bath trays were designed to accommodate both hands and both feet at the same time, allowing patients to position one on a table and one on the floor and dual-treat from a seated position.

What once was a 40-60 minute treatment with repositioning of the water bath trays becomes a fixed 20-minutes treatment.

Convenience

Most modern iontophoresis devices feature an automatic polarity switch. This reverses the direction of the ion current at the halfway point in the treatment, allowing for each extremity to receive equal distribution of the positive polarity. Why is that important? The positive polarity has been clinically-proven to deliver better therapeutic results.

Instead of having to remove a hand to change the polarity manually, patients can sit back comfortably for the entirety of their 20-minute treatment.

Effectiveness

The size of The Fischer’s silicone-graphite electrodes allows for adequate coverage of the skin’s surface area when treating both hands and feet at the same time. Treatment Specialists still recommend that patients begin iontophoresis by treating their hands and feet separately to ensure the speediest results in both areas, due to the differential in skin thickness between your palms and soles. But once patients are 100% dry and beginning to reduce frequency, most will transition to a dual hands and feet treatment to reduce the individual session time as well.

Compared to narrow metal electrodes or compact iontophoresis options, the proportions of The Fischer’s water bath trays, pH-balancing foam inserts, and silicone-graphite electrodes conveniently accommodate simultaneous treatment of hands and feet without sacrificing effectiveness.

From our experience here at RA Fischer, dual treatment is especially beneficial for pediatric hyperhidrosis patients. The shorter session duration can help them mentally embrace the treatment, which helps to ensure success. Our Fischer boasts a 98% success rate for patients!

Uncoated vs. Pre-Lubricated vs. Hydrophilic Catheters: Which Is the Right Choice For You?

If you’ve been living with urinary retention or neurogenic incontinence, your doctor has probably prescribed the use of an intermittent catheter to empty your bladder. Lubricating the catheter prior to insertion is the key to minimizing discomfort while self-cathing.

Patients nowadays have three primary options: uncoated, pre-lubricated, or hydrophilic catheters. What are the differences, and how do you know which is the right choice for you?

Uncoated Catheters

Uncoated intermittent catheters are the standard and most common you’ll find. These allow you to lubricate the catheter yourself so that you can better control the amount that’s applied. A sterile lubricant like Surgilube is a common recommendation our Treatment Specialists make.

Pre-Lubricated Catheters

Pre-lubricated catheters are covered in a gel-like, sterile lubricant. They are single-use and ready to go right out of the packaging. Here at RA Fischer, we carry the Cure Ultra catheter, which is coated in a “no drip” lubricant.

Another design benefit of the Cure Ultra catheter is the no-roll funnel. This allows you to place your catheter down on a flat sterile surface – such as an underpad (included in our Home Kits) – without it rolling off. The texture of the Cure Ultra funnel as well as the texture of the gripper sleeve works well even if you deal with dexterity issues in your hands.

Hydrophilic Catheters

Hydrophilic catheters feature a proprietary coating that reacts to water, self-lubricating the catheter within the unopened packaging. The catheter remains lubricated throughout the self-cathing experience.

There are two types of hydrophilic catheters:

  • Packet Breaking. Simply fold the packaging to break a packet of the sterile solution, coating the catheter. Just wait 30 seconds for the lubrication to be fully activated.
  • No Packet Breaking. The solution is already inside the packaging, meaning the catheter lubrication is already activated. No need to break the packet and wait 30 seconds before the catheter is ready to use.

Examples of no-packet-breaking, ready-to-use catheters are the GentleCath or Cure Twist. They can be covered by your insurance or ordered online with a monthly subscription.

The Most Important Differences

With uncoated catheters, there is no sterile water or saline solbeforeution. The lubricant is purchased individually and is more of a gel, so it won’t drip. Lubrication is key because when a catheter is inserted, it can cause micro-trauma to the urethral tissues if improperly coated. This not only feels uncomfortable, but it also increases the risks of developing a UTI (urinary tract infection).

Pre-lubricated and hydrophilic catheters are both quick to open and easy to insert. The main advantage a pre-lubricated catheter like the Cure Ultra has is the “no-drip and less-mess” experience. Remember: you’re not always going to be self-catheterizing at home, so a self-cathing solution that’s easy to use is an important thing to consider.

If you’re self-cathing more than once a day, we recommend talking to your doctor or one of our Treatment Specialists about switching to a pre-lubricated or hydrophilic catheter.

Sampling Different Types of Catheters

Choosing the right catheter is in the details, some of which are tangible. No roll funnels, easy-hold grippers, no-drip lubricant – experience the differences for yourself by ordering free samples through your personal Treatment Specialist. Together you can make the best decision and establish a delivery schedule, so you never have to worry about your supplies or support ever again!