Control Excess Sweating

 Excessive sweating also known as hyperhidrosis is a relatively uncommon disorder.  It affects only 2.8 percent of the population, but can have significant psychological consequences.  Thirty-four to 47 percent of the patients felt that their sweating had a moderate to severe effect on limitations at work, meeting people, and in romantic or intimate situations.  Seventy-one percent reported feeling less confident than they would like to be, 49 percent were unhappy or depressed and 25 percent stated they missed social gatherings and 32 percent were limited in regard to sexual activities.
The most common form of this condition is primary focal hyperhidrosis.  It has no known cause and typically has its onset in the teenage or early adult years. There is often a family history. The condition is bilateral [involves both sides of the body] and the focal sweating ceases during sleep. The most common areas involved are the axilla [arm pits], palms, feet and face.
Studies show that there is no increase in the size or number of the sweat glands in these patients.  The problem arises from over activity of the sympathetic nervous system that sends the signals to these glands.  Acetylcholine is the neurotransmitter associated with these signals.  Botox blocks the release of acetylcholine and thus can inhibit sweating in the same way it blocks the muscles that cause frown lines and crow’s feet.
Botox is FDA approved to treat focal hyperhidrosis.  The results appear in one to two weeks and can last up to one year or longer. Studies show an 81 percent reduction in sweat production. More importantly 92 percent of the patients were completely satisfied or satisfied with the results. The only side effects of the treatment are possible bruising, mild discomfort (alleviated with topical anesthetic and ice).  Some patients with sweaty palms have a short-term weakness of the intrinsic hand muscles.
In summary the use of Botox in excessive sweating of the hands, axilla, feet, and face is safe and very effective.
Treatment is available at Dermacure of Valencia.  For more information, please call 661-257-8400.