Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis treatment refers to methods of treating hyperhidrosis - a condition characterised by excessive sweating which is not always related to exercise or heat. Hyperhidrosis can involve sweating profusely so that sweat drips off the hands, or soaks through the clothes. It can disrupt your everyday life, as well as cause embarrassment in social settings.
Treatment for hyperhidrosis can involve antiperspirant medication and a range of therapies. In many cases, the most effective treatment can be botulinum toxin injections, which can ease the symptoms of hyperhidrosis for up to one year.
Botulinum toxin injections for hyperhidrosis are typically recommended for those who have tried different medications or therapies, which have proven to be ineffective.
It is important for a doctor to make a proper evaluation of excessive sweating, as there are several rate conditions which can also potentially cause the symptom. It has been found that botulinum toxin injections for hyperhidrosis are most effective when the condition is confined to a certain area of the body.
In general, this type of hyperhidrosis treatment is not recommended for pregnant women, or women who are breastfeeding. The treatment may also be unsuitable for those who have had neuromuscular disorders. An individual's lifestyle and career can also be factors in whether the treatment is suitable.
In many cases, joint problems can lead to pain in other areas of the body, such as the lower back, legs, buttocks, and groin. Joint injections - typically administered at the foot, knee, shoulder or hip - can help to ease these symptoms, too.
Botulinum toxin injections are considered one of the most effective treatments for hyperhidrosis. It works by blocking the nerve signals which determine sweating, stopping sweat glands producing excessive amounts of sweat.
The treatment is generally capable of preventing excessive sweating for a few months, with retreatment usually needed around every six months. Some people may find that they can go for a longer period between treatments.
Not only is the botulinum toxin injection treatment recognised for its effectiveness, but it is also tolerated well in general, and is a quick and easy procedure. The underarms or armpits respond particularly well to the treatment.
Botulinum toxin injections are among the new generation of treatments for hyperhidrosis, and for many patients, they have assisted in improving quality of life.
The treatment is usually administered in a hospital or at a doctor's clinic. You are usually asked to avoid shaving your armpits prior to the appointment, and you may need to stop taking any blood thinners ahead of the procedure in order to prevent bruising.
The procedure itself doesn't take long. You will typically be given some form of anaesthetic, such as ice or a numbing agent, to help ease any discomfort which may be a result of the injection. Using a fine needle, your doctor injects the botulinum toxin medication below the surface of the skin.
Usually, you will receive a series of injections which make a 'grid' pattern around the targeted area. You will typically be able to resume your daily activities as soon as the procedure is over. A follow-up appointment can be made in order to check that the treatment is working as expected.
Ultrasound may be used to help find the best injection site, and you will be instructed to lie down in a way which allows easy access to the injection site. The injection - of a mix which can include a numbing agent - will then be administered. You'll be given instructions on how to keep the injection site dry and clean over the next few hours, and you may want to use an ice pack to help relieve any pain.