Botox Treatments for Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis is the technical term for excessive sweating. It is a fairly common neurologic disorder that may involve excessive sweating in the armpits, also known as axillary hyperhidrosis, or profuse sweating in the soles of the feet, which is palmoplantar hyperhidrosis. Sweating in the armpits begins during adolescence while plantar sweating could manifest much earlier. Left untreated, issues continue through adulthood, causing embarrassment and social stigma for those who suffer from it.
What is Hyperhidrosis?
The condition is identified as a neurologic disorder, but endocrine issues, systemic diseases and certain infectious conditions can lead to excessive sweating. In many cases, symptomatic patients experience copious sweating with no other accompanying illnesses or conditions, yet they sweat during their waking hours under any weather condition. Nonetheless, heat and mood may be precursors to excessive sweating.
Sweating is a natural bodily function, but when it is excessive, it may affect your quality of life and your ability to perform certain tasks safely and effectively. For instance, underarm sweating can be embarrassing for someone who has to work in front of the public. However, excessive sweating in the hands and soles of the feet can make it difficult and uncomfortable to operate a vehicle or any machinery that requires efficient motor skills.
Treatments for Hyperhidrosis
Many people who have lived with excessive sweating for most of their lives do not seek treatment. Instead, they adapt to the condition, using other means such as covering up sweat stains or using premium absorbent socks. This is unfortunate because hyperhidrosis is highly treatable even in its most serious forms. Prescription medication, ointments and some natural treatments may help, but if you are looking for a more permanent solution to this lifelong affliction, consider Botox therapy.
The Science Behind Botox Treatments for Excessive Sweating
Botulinum toxin type A, popularly known as Botox is not normally identified as a sweat buster. While this substance is the go-to treatment for wrinkles and other facial imperfections, it has actually been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as a treatment for excessive sweating in the armpits since July 2004. Evidence has shown that Botox therapy for hyperhidrosis is more than 90 percent effective. A three-year study showed that patients on long-term Botox therapy continued to exhibit relief from excessive sweating after several treatments. The need for Botox therapy to control excessive sweating appeared to decline over time.
The substance acts on the sweat glands found in the underarm area to switch off the sweat production function. The treatment is effective from two to six months and even longer for some patients. The efficacy of the treatment depends on the individual condition. Botox is delivered as an injectable on target sites. Some health practitioners may recommend local anesthesia for patients who are particularly sensitive in the axillary region.
Individual Treatment Plans
Each individual is different. Intensity and precursors of hyperhidrosis vary from one person to the next, so it is important to discuss your symptoms and possible treatments on an individual basis. Consult one of our hyperhidrosis experts today for your customized treatment plan based on Botox therapy. Hyperhidrosis is treatable, so you may finally have a permanent solution to this chronic condition that has affected your life so profoundly.
