Treating Hyperhidrosis
Sufferers of hyperhidrosis experience excessive sweating even when it is not hot. Unfortunately, individuals who experience the disorder often drench and ruin clothing with unsightly sweat stains. However, recently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Botox as an effective way to treat hyperhidrosis of the armpits. It can also be used on the face and hands.
How does Botox Work with Hyperhidrosis?
Botox is a substance obtained from the microbes that cause botulism. For years it has been widely used to prevent and treat fine lines and wrinkles. Botox may also be an excellent way to manage the medical condition hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating).
Botox injections block the nerves responsible for controlling your sweat glands. Your nervous system automatically activates your sweat glands any time your body needs to cool down. In a standard functioning system, the body can effectively regulate its body temperature with a bit of planning. However, sufferers of hyperhidrosis do not have this feature.
Administering Hyperhidrosis
It takes less than 10 minutes for a physician to administer botox. A small amount of the substance is injected in a grid-like pattern. Each injection is spaced one to two centimeters apart. In many cases, the physician may numb the injection site to relieve discomfort. After injections, you will be required to have a follow-up visit in one to two weeks. During the checkup, your physician will be able to determine if there are still any sweat glands overproducing.
Effective of Botox for Treating Hyperhidrosis
The Botox injections directly affect your sweat glands. The nerves are unable to signal the gland to overproduce, so you do not sweat. However, Botox is only useful in areas where it has been injected. Sufferers of hyperhidrosis will still suffer from excessive sweating on other areas of the body. Botox does not cure the condition, and you will need to continue undergoing injections to control the situation.
If you suffer from excessive sweating and you believe that you might have the medical condition hyperhidrosis, then contact our office to see if Botox may be right for you!