Tag Archive for: hyperhidrosis

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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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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!
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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.  

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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!

Why Previous Attempts at Iontophoresis May Not Have Worked

Iontophoresis relies on a mild electrical current to deliver the natural minerals found in tap water to affected sweat glands as well as along the conduction system. After several sessions, this ion current has been clinically proven to reduce perspiration without damaging the sweat glands. However, not all patients have this experience at first.

Whether you had previously tried and failed treatments for hyperhidrosis or saw diminished effectiveness over time, here is why previous attempts at iontophoresis may not have worked for you.

Soft Water

During iontophoresis, tap water serves as an electrically conductive medium between the electrodes and your skin. Minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium are delivered into the skin, essentially “plugging them up” to create an all-natural dryness barrier. However, some houses have water-softening systems that filter out these necessary minerals. Or you may find yourself in an area of the country where the well water is naturally soft.

Soft water may have been why iontophoresis didn’t work for you in the past.

Fix: Adding baking soda, using an exterior water source like a hose, or buying mineral water from the store.

Metal Electrodes

Traditionally, aluminum or stainless-steel electrodes were added to basins filled with tap water. But because metal is a corrosive material, these electrodes would become discolored, pitted, and lose effectiveness throughout treatments. Corrosion impedes the current because it prefers to flow through the path of least resistance. Having coverage across your entire skin’s surface area ensures better, more consistent results.

Corroded metal electrodes may have been why iontophoresis didn’t work for you in the past.

Fix: Metal-free, silicone-graphite electrodes.

The Wrong Current

During iontophoresis, the current is applied as either a constant Direct Current or Pulsed Current. These two current types differ in their therapeutic effectiveness and perceived sensation. Dermatologists consider direct current more effective because the application is constant and consistent. With Direct Current, patients experience faster results.

“For a person suffering from excessive sweating, direct current is the only choice,” says Dr. Rolf Eilers of Saalmann Medical.

Pulsed current is perceived as being a more comfortable experience because you can tolerate higher current levels. Due to the inconsistent flow of Pulsed Current, the therapeutic dose (or milliamperes) cannot compare with that of Direct Current. Pulsed current is more frequently applied for those with sensitivity issues or pediatric patients.

Imagine two rooms. In one, you turn the lights on, wait for 20 minutes, and then turn them off. That’s Direct Current. In room #2, the light bulbs are brighter, but you can’t tolerate that much brightness, so you keep flickering the lights on and off for twenty minutes. That’s Pulsed Current.

While both current types have their own use, treating with the wrong one may have been why iontophoresis didn’t work for you in the past.

Fix: An iontophoresis device like The Fischer that features both Direct Current and Pulsed Current settings, giving you the flexibility to treat for faster results or a more comfortable experience.

Not Treating for Long Enough

At RA Fischer, our Treatment Specialists recommend that patients begin iontophoresis treatments at 20-minutes per area. During the initial phase of our 3-phased treatment approach, the goal is to reduce sweat within the first two weeks with an every-other-day session.

Following this initial phase, a gradual reduction in sessions – from 3x a week to 1-2 sessions per week, and so on – is required to maintain therapeutic success. For patients with palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis, this is when you can transition to treating both hands and both feet at the same time, effectively reducing the treatment time in half.

Once you’ve achieved 100% consistent dryness, you’ve reached the maintenance phase of iontophoresis and can now treat on an “as needed” basis. Some patients can go 4-6 weeks in between 20-minute sessions.

Not treating for long enough, or following the wrong treatment plan, may have been why iontophoresis didn’t work for you in the past.

Fix: Following our treatment plan or speaking to one of our Treatment Specialists with specific questions about your symptoms and experience.

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How To Use The Fischer: Underarms

The Fischer: Underarms is a modern, metal-free iontophoresis device. Silicone-graphite electrodes with soft sponge pad inserts deliver a better, faster, and safer experience for axillary hyperhidrosis patients. Soft-touch and designed to contour to your underarms, these state-of-the-art underarm attachments ensure treatment is delivered consistently across your skin’s surface area. This how to article reviews setup and treatment:

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  1. First, clean your underarms by removing ointments, creams, and/or cosmetics.
  2. Soak the sponge pad sleeves in tap water, but don’t wring them out! The wetter the better as this helps ensure current flow.
  3. Take each of the axillary electrodes and insert them into the sponge pad sleeves. Make sure they are completely pushed in.
  4. Plug The Fischer control unit into the wall and power it on.
  5. Plug the axillary electrode cables into the connectors E1 and E2 located at the back of the control unit.
  6. Set treatment timer to 15-20 minutes
  7. Set power level. It’s important to treat at a level that’s comfortable for you. Most patients begin low at 1-3 mA and gradually increase over time.
  8. You’re now ready to begin treatment. Insert an attachment (sponge pad sleeve + electrode) under each arm, with the connector cables pointing to the front. Keep them in place by applying slight pressure with your arms.
  9. After your treatment timer reaches zero and you hear the beep, remove the attachments from under your arms.
  10. Power The Fischer off, because you’re finished!

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Please refer to The Fischer instruction manual for full details on setup and treatment. Questions? Contact our Treatment Specialists today!

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How To Use The Fischer: Hands & Feet

The Fischer is a modern, metal-free iontophoresis device for treating palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis, aka excessively sweaty hands and feet. This how to article reviews setup and treatment:

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  1. Plug the main control unit into the wall and turn it on.
  2. Place the water bath trays on a level surface.
  3. Connect an electrode cable to each electrode.
  4. Plug electrode cords into connectors E1 and E2 at the back panel of the main control unit.
  5. Place an electrode into each water bath tray. Although it doesn’t matter which electrode goes where, for ease of use, place the electrode plugged into E1 in the left water bath tray and the electrode plugged into E2 in the right water bath tray.
  6. Cover each electrode with a blue foam insert.
  7. Fill both water bath trays with tap water (approx. 2-5 cups) so that the foam mats are damp. A good sign that you’ve added the right amount of water: the palms of your hands and/or soles of your feet are completely wet and the outsides of your fingers and/or toes are partially covered. Unless you suffer from sweating on the tops of your hands and/or feet, refrain from submerging your entire hand/foot in water.
  8. Set the treatment timer.
  9. Set your power level.
  10. Set the current to Direct Current
  11. Set the polarity switch to Auto
  12. Place both hands/feet into the water bath trays
  13. On the main control unit, you’ll notice the Active Treatment Display (ATD) light up with two bars. These display in real-time that the treatment is working and when you’ve reached the preset power level.
  14. Treat for 15-20 minutes per session. Once the timer reaches zero, wait for the beep.
  15. Remove your hands and feet.
  16. Turn off The Fischer, because your treatment is finished!

Please refer to The Fischer instruction manual for full details on setup and treatment. Questions? Contact our Treatment Specialists today!

At-Home Hyperhidrosis Solutions During Coronavirus Social Distancing

The coronavirus has hyperhidrosis patients looking for sustainable, at-home solutions. Botox treatment offices are closing. Supply chains for medications are being disrupted. Where can patients turn?

Iontophoresis is the ideal at-home solution for patients struggling with sweaty hands, feet, and/or underarms during social distancing.

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Medical Office Closures

Some hyperhidrosis patients rely on regular Botox injections to manage their sweat symptoms. With doctor’s offices across the United States closing due to the coronavirus, patients are now scrambling for alternative options.

Botox is most commonly used to treat severe underarm sweating. But did you know that iontophoresis devices come with special attachments that can be used to treat the underarms? Even better: the treatment is all-natural, compared to the possible side-effects associated with getting Botox injections.

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City & County-Wide Quarantines

What happens if you’re asked not to leave your home except for necessities? Relying on prescription wipes and medications adds stress to an already stressful situation. Whether it’s supply chain disruptions resulting in delayed deliveries, or impossibly-long lines at the pharmacy, hyperhidrosis patients may soon be forced to rely on at-home alternatives.

Iontophoresis devices plug right into your wall. The science uses a mild electric current to deliver the natural minerals found in tap water into your sweat pores, “plugging them up” to create a long-lasting dryness barrier. Most patients treat once every 3-4 weeks for only 20-minutes as part of an ongoing maintenance schedule.

At the end of the day, iontophoresis gives hyperhidrosis patients peace of mind that everything they need to fight sweat is already in their possession.

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Utilizing Downtime

Now that you’re staying safe by social distancing, you have more free time on your hands! Well, that is unless you have kids to home-school for the foreseeable future. Luckily, our Treatment Specialists can look into your insurance benefits and eligibility on your behalf. Ask yourself:

  • Have you switched insurance providers?
  • Have you met your deductible this year?
  • Are you seeing a new Primary Care Physician?

Now’s the time to re-evaluate your hyperhidrosis coverage options.

Last Things To Remember

While some hyperhidrosis patients may be relishing in the fact that no one’s shaking hands these days, others are still living with the stigma of heavy sweating. Hyperhidrosis is a common and treatable medical condition and nothing to be embarrassed about.

If you or someone you know is still struggling with sweat, remember:

  • It’s common. Excessive sweating is something millions of people struggle with, so just know you’re not alone.
  • It’s misunderstood. It’s not anxiety or “just clammy hands.” Hyperhidrosis can seriously affect one’s confidence and even career.
  • It’s treatable. Iontophoresis is 91% effective for treating overly-sweaty hands, feet, and underarms.

RA Fischer’s iontophoresis device is FDA-Cleared and covered by select insurance plans. We even file prior-authorization requests. Our Treatment Specialists are working remotely during the coronavirus pandemic and are still available to answer your questions. Contact us or give us a call at (800) 525-3467.