| Q. |
Is heavy perspiration common? |
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| A. |
As many as one in four people has a perspiration problem, this is invariably a source of physical and social distress often unrecognised by the medical profession. |
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| Q. |
Can I REALLY solve this problem? |
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| A. |
Yes. The answers below will suggest ways in which you CAN make a dramatic difference to your condition, everyone is different however, so you will need to find the right technique to suit you. Experiment to find out which treatments are best and do confer with fellow HH sufferers, use the Internet discussion groups, you'll find them really helpful, try or or . You will also find the new information website at will provide a useful overview and comparison of the treatments currently available for Hyperhidrosis. |
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| Q. |
What is the difference between a deodorant and an antiperspirant?
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| A. |
Deodorants simply help to kill the skin bacteria responsible for causing unpleasant odours or mask the smell, whilst antiperspirants are used just to keep the skin dry. |
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| Q. |
Is using Odaban the best way to solve my "wetness" problem?
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| A. |
Thousands of people worldwide have found Odaban to be a product that really does solve perspiration problems. For more than 25 years the medical profession has endorsed this general view with many dermatologists now recommending the use of Odaban in preference to surgical procedures. |
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| Q. |
Is it dangerous to prevent sweating? |
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| A. |
Controlling perspiration in the "hot spots" is not dangerous as there are lots of other skin areas for sweating to take place in order to cool the body. The perspiration that can't get out is simply re-routed through the blood stream to other sweat ducts or excreted through the kidneys. |
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| Q. |
Is there any independent evidence of Odaban's efficacy?
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| A. |
Many independent trials and reviews have been conducted on Odaban by hospital consultants, chiropodists (podiatrists), pharmacists, medical journals, national newspapers and sporting magazines (see Testimonial Web-page) - All the findings endorse Odaban as an efficient and cost effective solution for perspiration and odour problems. |
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| Q. |
What is the active ingredient of Odaban?
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| A. |
Odaban's active ingredient is 20% w/v aluminium chloride hexahydrate dissolved in pure ethyl alcohol containing a protective silicone. |
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| Q. |
Why do all the other aluminium chloride products cause so much irritation?
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| A. |
Water be it perspiration from the skin or humidity in the air causes all aluminium chloride preparations to break down to form an acidic by-product, it is this acidity which produces the problem of irritancy. All the available aluminium chloride products except Odaban are dispensed from roll-ons or dab on containers which allow the ingress of water. The unique Odaban pump spray hermetically seals the contents preventing any contact with water, the silicone content of Odaban also protects the skin and helps increase the wetting effect of the formulation thus enabling less product to be used per application. Odaban is therefore more comfortable, safer and effective than other similar products. |
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| Q. |
Are prescription products more effective? |
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| A. |
No. Odaban is in fact accepted by the United Kingdom's National Health Service for prescribing by doctors, however, my aim is to enable this product to be more easily available by also being licensed for retail sales. |
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| Q. |
Is Odaban safe for all skin types? |
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| A. |
Even those people with sensitive skins who are allergic to other antiperspirants can apply Odaban.
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| Q. |
Is Odaban safe to use during pregnancy?
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| A. |
Yes. Odaban only acts on the surface of the skin, there is absolutely no absorbtion into the blood stream, thus no harm will come to the baby during pregnancy or afterwards if breast-feeding.
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| Q. |
Does the aluminium content of Odaban constitute any long-term health hazard, such as Alzheimer's disease?
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| A. |
The high astringency of the Odaban formulation prevents any aluminium from being absorbed through the skin, therefore there are absolutely no side effects from any of the product entering the body.
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| Q. |
Do antiperspirants cause breast cancer?
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| A. |
Various magazines and newspapers have reported that antiperspirants in blocking the sweat ducts prevent the excretion of toxins and also prevent the lymph nodes from working properly, thus increasing the risk of breast cancer. All professional medical opinion worldwide refute these claims as completely untrue. The liver, the kidney and the lymph nodes via the blood stream are the main detoxifying and excretion routes for the body, the sweat ducts play a very minor role. The blockages of the lymph nodes referred to in these articles are in fact large quantities of white blood cells which have performed their physiological duty and digested toxins and bacteria which have invaded the body and then subsequently died as is normal when their "work" is done. These dead white cells are eventually safely transported from the lymph nodes for excetion via the blood stream. Antiperspirants do not interfere with the body's detoxifying or excretory processes and in no way are they responsible for causing any form of cancer. |
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| Q. |
How long does it take to work? |
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| A. |
This depends on many factors and everyone is different. Usually between one to four applications and you should notice a huge difference in your personal freshness. It may be necessary, however, to continue nightly applications for upto a month before full protection is experienced. |
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| Q. |
How often do I use it?
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That depends on how severe your problem is. Most people find that once their rate of perspiration is under control they will only need to use Odaban once or twice a week.
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| Q. |
How long does one pack last? |
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Most users find one pack of Odaban lasts between six to twelve months. |
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| Q. |
Is it safe to use Odaban all over the body?
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| A. |
Yes. Use just one spray for each skin area to be treated and apply with cotton wool (make-up remover pads are convenient) sparingly. In this way treatments of the face and other sensitive skin areas such as the groin and under breasts are easily managed. Use talc to absorb any excess product after application. |
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| Q. |
What’s the best way to apply Odaban underarms?
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| A. |
Apply just one spray with a cotton wool makeup remover pad, treat only the inner hollow of the armpit as this is where the majority of the sweat ducts are found. Men are normally able to spray directly into the arm pit the hair acting as a dispersing barrier which helps prevents over application. Some people have found a hair dryer is useful in preparing the skin before application and removing excess product after treatment, others use talc. |
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| Q. |
Will Odaban wash off? |
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| A. |
Odaban's protection is long lasting and will not wash off even during swimming. |
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| Q. |
Can I use Odaban on my scalp?
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| A. |
You can WITH CARE spray directly onto the scalp. Part the hair if necessary then treat by spraying and rubbing in with the finger tips. Odaban will not cause any discolouration or loss of hair. Keep your eyes closed and use sparingly during treatment. |
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| Q. |
I’ve just reached puberty and I’m perspiring badly, why?
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| A. |
Unfortunately the change in your hormones can trigger an over stimulation of your sweat glands. This problem occurs with lots of people and is nothing to worry about as the situation can be controlled with Odaban. |
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| Q. |
Does Odaban have any odour?
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| A. |
The active ingredients of Odaban are dissolved in pure alcohol that evaporates in seconds leaving no trace of an odour. |
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| Q. |
I have an odour problem as well as a "wetness" problem, what can I do? Also see next answer.
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| A. |
Unpleasant odours are produced by the naturally occurring skin bacteria breaking down waxy secretions mainly from the Apocrine glands found under the arms, nipple and genital areas (these areas cause little problem). Treatment is two-fold,keeping the skin dry by using Odaban regularly to create an unfavourably DRY habitat, which prevents the bacteria multiplying rapidly, and by using a deodorant (bacteria "killer"), antiseptic wash / soap / powder (Hibiclens/Hibitane solution/powder, generic name, Chlorhexidine Gluconate 4%, from local pharmacy), and cleansing the skin with alcohol swabs, several times a day to reduce the number of bacteria and the amount of secretions. |
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| Q. |
I've tried everything but my odour problem is simply terrible, what can I do?
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| A. |
Some people suffer from a condition known as Bromhidrosis where the Apocrine glands connected to hair follicles produce larger quantities of skin secretions as described in the above answer to produce terrible odours. In these extreme cases the treatment is more specialised. Removal of skin hair helps as does the taking of antioxidants such as vitamin E, using antibiotic creams also works but is not recommended long-term (check Internet for Farnesol / Tea Tree Oil products, safer and organic). A permanent cure can be effected by using "electrolysis therapy", it is a lengthy process and is costly but for those suffering this comlaint it is a real God-send. Take heart this unpleasant condition, even when extreme can be treated successfully. Odour sufferers will find much useful advice at http://communities.msn.com/ExcessiveSweatHH. |
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| Q. |
Is Odaban better than other antiperspirants?
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| A. |
Yes. Odaban is the most effective antiperspirant available world- wide. The formulation, quality control and unique metered-dose packaging are second to none. Odaban has been well recognised by dermatologists worldwide as the first commercial product of its type to be fully effective yet much less liable to cause irritation. |
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| Q. |
Why is Odaban only dispensed from a pump spray?
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| A. |
As the active ingredient of Odaban is broken down by water, the unique hermetically sealed titanium pump spray protects the product from atmospheric water vapour and water on the skin (perspiration). Other aluminium chloride products using roll-ons and pad-dispensers etc are therefore liable to cause skin irritation. |
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| Q. |
Why must I apply Odaban only at bedtime?
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| A. |
As Odaban is broken down by water it is important to apply it only to DRY skin. Odaban is therefore applied at bedtime when not actively perspiring. Applying Odaban during the day may cause skin irritation and stain clothing. |
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| Q. |
Why do some people use talc when applying Odaban? |
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| A. |
Most women find that using a little talc before and after applying Odaban not only helps to dry the skin but also absorbs any over-application of product. |
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| Q. |
Can I shave underarms before using Odaban?
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| A. |
Shaving before or immediately after application of Odaban is not recommended, however, if your careful and do not knick the skin (as this will cause stinging during application) you can apply Odaban without waiting the usual 24 hours. |
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| Q. |
Can I insert my contact lenses after applying Odaban to my hands?
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| A. |
Yes, as long as you apply Odaban as directed, that is, remove your lenses, dry the skin and apply at bedtime, then wash the treated area the following morning before inserting your lenses. |
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| Q. |
Can I apply Odaban to the genital area? |
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| A. |
Yes, but you will have to take special care as the skin is thinner and therefore more sensitive in this area. Ensure your skin is really dry (talc or a hairdryer may help) then apply very sparingly via cotton wool as directed in the instruction leaflet. |
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| Q. |
Will sun tan lotions or moisturising creams interfere with Odaban?
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No, apply Odaban correctly as per directions and you'll be fine to use any sun tan lotion or moisturising cream the following day. |
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| Q. |
Can I use another antiperspirant, deodorant or perfume with Odaban?
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Yes. |
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| Q. |
I occasionally get a skin rash using Odaban, am I doing anything wrong?
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Odaban is specially formulated with a protective silicone and the purest of ingredients to help prevent any skin irritation, a rash will almost certainly be due to an over application of product. Remember to apply just one spray per application. |
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| Q. |
What do I do if Odaban isn't working?
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It can take up to several weeks of nightly use before Odaban controls a really bad perspiration problem, after which you should be able to continue using the product just once or twice weekly. |
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| Q. |
My Odaban was working fine but now I find it's not so effective, what's wrong?
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| A. |
Nothing's wrong, everyone is different and some people may find that after several months Odaban may be less effective than before. Just stop using Odaban for a week to "rest" the skin then continue as before, use nightly applications until perspiration control is again established. Using an occlusive dressing or a Drionic machine may also help restore this control (see other answers). Do remember to build up your protection slowly by applying your Odaban sparingly and don't worry if you find you need to apply Odaban more regularly than other users. |
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| Q. |
Will Odaban help people with artificial limbs?
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| A. |
By keeping the skin dry Odaban will help prevent the painful blistering that often occurs with prosthesis. Used in conjunction with a "wicking" sock the skin is kept in perfect condition. |
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| Q. |
Will Odaban help control the excessive "wetness" of my hands and feet?
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| A. |
Regular low dose applications of Odaban will control the rate of perspiration from the hands and feet. Avoiding synthetic footwear made of "non-breathing" material will also help. |
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| Q. |
Is there any way to boost even the effectiveness of Odaban?
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The drying effect of Odaban can be increased by wrapping the treated skin area in a plastic "dressing" (Cling Film in the U.K. or Saran Wrap in the U.S.), on thicker skin areas such as the palms or feet a greater amount of product can also be used to increase the poral "plugging" effect. |
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| Q. |
Does Odaban help facial blushing and facial sweating?
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Odaban will not help facial blushing, as this is an involuntary blood vessel disorder. However, it will help control excessive facial perspiration from the forehead, nose and chin. |
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| Q. |
What if Odaban does not completely solve my facial sweating?
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Some individuals may find that Glycopyrrolate wipes (trade name, Robinul), are more effective than Odaban for this condition. Remember, however, this product is a drug that works by being absorbed into the body through the skin, use very sparingly to avoid side-effects. There is no systemic absorbtion with Odaban. |
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| Q. |
Does Odaban cure "Athlete's Foot"? |
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Nothing cures "Athlete's Foot", the problem is always liable to re-occur in hot weather. Odaban will however quickly eradicate all symptoms and prevent the re-occurrence of the condition if used regularly. |
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| Q. |
Will Odaban stop my feet blistering?
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As a very efficient antiperspirant Odaban will keep feet dry during training and sporting activities thus helping prevent painful blistering. |
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| Q. |
Will Odaban help the excessive sweating from my lower back and backside? |
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Odaban will keep the lower back dry, however, a few individuals may find that their backside still "leaks". In this case it is best to continue using Odaban sparingly twice a week and also use a winged stick on sanitary towel, they are undetectable, will protect the under-clothes and help prevent the skin from chafing |
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| Q. |
Does Odaban protect against skin infections?
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Odaban helps protect against verrucas and fungal infections found around saunas and swimming pools by coating the skin with an invisible "antiseptic glove". |
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| Q. |
Will taking medicines help? |
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There are a number of potent medicines such as Oxybutynin, Glycopyrrolate, Clonidine and Atenolol for examples that can be purchased or prescribed by a doctor which may offer some relief for perspiration sufferers. The side effects, however, can be severe and the drying effects often disappear after a month or so. |
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| Q. |
What is ETS?
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ETS stands for Endoscopic Transthoracic Sympathectomy a surgical procedure for the cutting or clamping (with titanium clips) of those nerves controlling the sweat-glands. The operation may offer only temporary or partial relief, is painful, expensive and can cause compensatory sweating elsewhere on the body. |
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| Q. |
What is IONTOPHORESIS? |
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Iontophoresis is a process (used daily or every few weeks depending on the severity of the condition) for controlling excessive perspiration. The skin area to be treated is held in water or against a moist pad (for thirty minutes) whilst a low voltage current is used to produce a coagulation of skin proteins. This action helps to control the rate of perspiration by partially blocking the sweat ducts although some individuals may find the the process rather painful. Iontophoresis is a useful supplement for those people with a really resistant "wetness" problem and can be used safely in conjunction with Odaban on a regular basis.
Iontophoresis machines can be found on the Internet under Drionic or Idrostar. (http://www.drionic.com). |
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| Q. |
Is Odaban FDA approved? |
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No. Odaban, however, has been approved by the U.K. medical authorities for prescribing by doctors and for general counter sales, further registration in other countries would be costly and time consuming. Odaban is produced to the highest standards and would not be improved in any way by extra licensing from the FDA. It is only by dealing directly with customers that I will be able to maintain the quality of personal service now offered, FDA registration would mean "big-business" taking over! |
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| Q. |
What is the shelf-life of Odaban? |
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A bottle of Odaban will keep for three years, but as one pack often lasts 12 months it is best to purchase no more than two or three bottles at any one time for personal use. |
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| Q. |
Will Odaban stain my clothes?
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Used as directed Odaban will not stain clothes, however, it is important to remember to wash the treated areas the morning after bedtime application. |
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| Q. |
I've tried everything and nothing helps, what can I do? |
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For those people who feel their Hyperhydrosis is so bad they cannot cope, then surgery may be worth considering. Be very careful, search for a surgeon who uses the titanium clamping technique so that the operation may be reversible. It is extremely important to be aware that side effects are likely and that these can be worse than the original problem iteself. A web site which may help you understand your options more clearly is "http://www.hyperhidrosisclinicusa.com". |
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| Q. |
Is Odaban available to every country by mail order?
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Yes. We mail-order Odaban worldwide with all delivery charges included in the price. Please use any of the purchase buttons on the Order page to determine the cost. |
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| Q. |
How long will my Odaban take to arrive?
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You will normally receive your Odaban directly to your door within 14 working days, in busy periods please allow up to 21 day. Your Odaban will be packed discretely in a plain "jiffy" bag. |
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