Excessive sweating is a medical condition called hyperhidrosis.
Sweating is a normal thermo-regulatory process of human body. In other words, we sweat every time our body needs to cool down, in order to prevent overheating. If, however, sweating occurs without any obvious reason, than one might suffer from hyperhidrosis.
Excessive sweating may be generalized or localized to certain areas of the body. The former is usually a result of metabolic or endocrine dysfunction such as diabetes, hyperthyroidism or fever.
Localized excessive sweating usually occurs on underarms, palms, soles or head and is not related to any other underlying disease. Therefore it is called primary focal hyperhidrosis. It can be very stressful for sufferers, since it interferes with daily activities and makes them nervous and self-conscious. Moreover. sweat-soaked skin is prone to fungal or microbial infections.
While about 3% of the general population is affected by hyperhidrosis, few people know that dermatologists can effectively treat their problem.
To diagnose this condition, a dermatologist gives the patient a physical exam. Sometimes medical testing is necessary. Some patients require a test called the sweat test (Minor’s test). To find an underlying medical condition, other medical tests may be necessary.
Primary focal hyperhidrosis can be treated with:
1. Topical antiperspirant preparations
2. Botulinum toxin injections (Botox_Dysport)
Botulinum toxin (Botox_Dysport) injections are approved for the treatment of primary axillary hyperhidrosis. The treatment is administered intradermally. It is safe and very effective. It has been shown to result in an 82-87% decrease in sweating. Results start to be noticeable approximately 2 to 4 days after treatment with the full effects usually noted within 2 weeks. Dryness typically lasts 4 to 12 months, but some studies have found it can last as long as 14 months. When excessive sweating reappears, the treatment can be repeated.
Axillary hyperhidrosis is the second most important dermatological indication of botulinum toxin injections after wrinkle correction.
It is a highly rewarding treatment sought by more and more people suffering from excessive sweating.
Injection points for axillary and palmar hyperhidrosis:
