Dear Dr. Gott: For as long as I can remember, I’ve had a problem with my hands and feet sweating. This always happens at inappropriate times and is extremely embarrassing. It is affecting my work pattern and daily activity. When I finally spoke with my doctor about this, he indicated the condition is known as hyperhidrosis. What on Earth is this, and is there any medication I can take to control it?

Reply: Eccrine glands are one of two kinds of sweat glands. When functioning properly, they cool the body when the sweat they produce is released. Sweat is clear, has a faint odour and contains water, salt, albumin, urea (the main nitrogen part of urine made from a breakdown of protein) and other compounds. Hyperhidrosis (too much sweating) is often caused by heat, an overactive thyroid gland, emotional situations, menopause or infection. No one knows why some people sweat through their underarms or forehead and others through their hands and feet, but no matter where it occurs, it is often embarrassing and can affect daily activity. In the past, topical agents such as antiperspirants, prescribed medications and surgery were recommended. However, according to the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, injected Botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) blocks the nerve fibres that supply the sweat glands. Tests in a double-blind placebo-controlled trial of treatment with BTX reported greater than a 50 percent improvement, with a median duration of positive effect of more than six months. This is excellent breakthrough news that should be welcomed by all people suffering from hyperhydrosis.

Speak with your doctor about BTX, and let me know what he has to say.Dear Dr. Gott: My husband is 84 years old and is experiencing loss of memory. A neurologist is giving him medicine. In addition, I give him a multi-vitamin pill and a 1,000-microgram B-12 tablet once a day. I’ve read that folate is helpful in preventing memory loss, but don’t see it on the shelf in my pharmacy. What is your opinion of folate, and can I get it without a prescription>

Reply: In the elderly, forgetfulness can be caused by a variety of ailments, ranging from ageing and “mini-strokes” to Alzheimer’s. A folate deficiency can also cause memory loss. Therefore, folic acid supplements are a safe — and somewhat helpful — option.Folate is available without a prescription and can be purchased in most pharmacies. If you don’t see it on the shelf, ask your pharmacist or an employee for help finding it. The usual dose is 800 micrograms daily. Make sure that you notify your husband’s neurologist of your wish to try folate supplements.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Alzheimer’s Disease”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, Ohio 44092. Be sure to mention the title.

Dr. Gott is a retired physician and the author of the new book “Dr. Gott’s No Flour, No Sugar Diet”. Contact him c/o United Media, 200 Madison Avenue, fourth floor, New York, New York 10016.