HealthWatch

New Procedure Promises End To Sweaty Palms

(CBS) We all get sweaty palms from time to time but for some, it's a chronic condition.

Now there is a new surgery to turn off the sweat instantly, but it doesn't come without risk. Amanda Fields' sweaty hands are gone.

"It's weird to look down and, 'Hey they're not sweating!'" Fields said.

The 21-year-old used to suffer from hyperhidrosis, a condition that made her hands constantly drip with sweat.

"When I was younger, growing up, I had social anxiety, didn't like new situations, meeting new people," Fields said.

When prescription antiperspirants didn't work she found a surgical option.

Hyperhidrosis is caused by a dysfunction in the nerve chain near the spine. By cutting part of the nerve surgeons can instantly stop the sweating.

In the past people have shied away from the surgery because it meant a major operation. To reach the nerve, doctors had to make a large incision and open up the chest cavity.

Today, smaller instruments allow surgeons to do the procedure safer and faster.

After making a small incision, Dr. David Sekons goes in through the armpit. A tiny camera on the end of the device guides the way.

Once he reaches the nerve, a small blade cuts it, stopping the sweat.

"Most patients go back to work after two or three days," Sekons said.

Still, there are risks. It's common for patients to start sweating on the back and legs. In some, it gets so bad, they regret having the surgery.

Amanda has not had any side effects.

"Now my confidence has grown so much," Fields said. "I can go and meet new people. I'm a happier person."

For her the rewards of the operation were worth the risks.

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