What is Hyperhidrosis or Excessive Sweating?

Excessive sweating or hyperhidrosis is a medical condition where a person sweats more than normal. Normally, excessive sweating occurs when you are nervous/emotional or when you are too hot. Many people who have hyperhidrosis suffer from excessive sweating in the axilla, underarms, feet, palms, head, and even in the pubic area.  Hands can be sweaty during the average workday. Excessive sweating can soak clothes and cause staining and smell as well as fungal infections.

There are two forms of hyperhidrosis, localized and generalized.

Localized hyperhidrosis occurs in the hands, feet, armpits, groin, and facial area. Hyperhidrosis can also be genetic or acquired. It can be classified into primary or secondary hyperhidrosis. Overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system causes primary hyperhidrosis. Therefore anxiety or excitement can cause this excessive sweating. Even certain foods or drinks (such as coffee and tea) can cause excessive sweating.

What are the treatments for hyperhidrosis?

They are classified in the forms of surgical, topical, oral, and electrical treatments. Both oral and surgical treatments have many side effects. Surgery is not without major risk and not worth in my personal opinion. The most effective nonsurgical treatment offered for this condition is in the form of BOTOX, which can last from  3-9 months. BOTOX A is FDA is approved for severe primary auxiliary hyperhidrosis.

How much Botox or Dysport do you need to treat Hyperhidrosis?

For axillary area typically around 50 units per side is injected. For hands and feet, one may need more than 100 units.

Does the Botox injection hurt?

Topical anesthesia, Ice,  Zimmer cooling can reduce pain. Dr. Shanthala    uses a tiny needle to inject the botox and typically it is tolerable.

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