Excessive Sweating

Excessive sweating, also known as ‘Hyperhidrosis’ can profoundly affect self-consciousness and be a seriously embarrassing condition. When severe sweating interferes with daily activities, it can cause great emotional and psychological upset, especially when it is sweating from the underarms. It is estimated that up to 5% of the population suffers from some form of hyperhidrosis during their lives.

Sweating is a normal physiological process which the body uses to keep itself cool and at times of stress. Hyperhidrosis occurs when the body produces excessive sweat during these times or continues to produce sweat when it is not required. When severe sweating gets in the way of daily activities and antiperspirants are not working, you may be a suitable candidate for the Botox® (Botulinum toxin) treatment. The body areas that can be affected include: the underarms, palms, feet and forehead.

Botox® is approved by the FDA to treat the symptoms of severe underarm sweating. Botox® is injected into the affected areas to help control this condition by temporarily blocking the chemical signals from the nerves that stimulate the sweat glands. When the sweat glands do not receive chemical signals, the severe sweating settles.

Here at Dermalogic Aesthetics, our medical practitioners are highly experienced in all non-surgical procedures, including treating this condition. If you are considering treatment for excessive sweating then the first step is to book in for an initial consultation, to ascertain how sweating affects you, and what type of hyperhidrosis you have. Using a simple BOTOX® injection to treat underarm sweating is just as effective as surgery used to be, without the risks or costs involved. Before any treatment you’ll need to discuss your condition with our doctor. This is because your sweating may also be caused by an overactive thyroid, diabetes, an anxiety disorder or other medical condition, and other tests might be needed.

EXCESSIVE SWEATING CAN BE HELPED WITH: (WHICH TREATMENTS)

Treatment with Botox® injections for underarm sweating.

SYMPTOMS OF EXCESSIVE SWEATING

Hyperhidrosis is a very under-diagnosed condition as the majority of individuals affected by it never seek medical advice or treatment. Women are reported to be more affected by this condition than men. It is of no danger to health; however, it may carry implications for quality of life and psychosocial well-being. Those with axillary hyperhidrosis appear to be particularly affected in terms of quality of life, followed by those with palmar hyperhidrosis.

CAUSES OF EXCESSIVE SWEATING

There are two types of hyperhidrosis.

Primary hyperhidrosis (also called focal hyperhidrosis) causes excessive sweating in the hands, underarms, face, and feet without any apparent reason. This type occurs when the nerves responsible for triggering your sweat glands become overactive and call for more perspiration even when it’s not needed. Primary hyperhidrosis may be at least partially hereditary.
Secondary hyperhidrosis (also called generalised hyperhidrosis) causes excessive sweating all over the body or in a larger area of the body and can be caused by excessive heat as well as a medical condition or medication.

If the sweating can be attributed to an underlying medical condition, it’s called secondary hyperhidrosis.

PREVENTION OF EXCESSIVE SWEATING

Doctors aren’t sure why people have primary hyperhidrosis, although it may be hereditary. However, excessive sweating cannot completely be prevented but the symptoms can at times be controlled. Many people tell their doctors they’ve experienced excessive sweating since they were a child.

People with primary hyperhidrosis may be able to cope with lifestyle measures to help minimise the impact of excessive sweating in your day to day life.

Wear loose clothes made from breathable materials like silk and cotton.
Likewise, choose leather shoes and thick cotton socks, rather than footwear made from synthetic materials.
Maintain good hygiene
Excessive sweating may lead to dehydration. Ensuring proper hydration is maintained is important in managing the condition.