Hyperhidrosis, commonly known as excessive sweating, is a medical condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. It can significantly impact a person's quality of life, leading to social anxiety, embarrassment, and even skin infections. While several treatments exist, botulinum toxin has emerged as an effective and widely accepted solution for managing this condition.
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Hyperhidrosis can be classified into two main types: primary focal hyperhidrosis and secondary generalized hyperhidrosis.
Primary focal hyperhidrosis typically has no cause and can start or appear suddenly and usually affects specific areas such as the palms, soles, underarms, and face.
Secondary generalized hyperhidrosis is often caused by underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, infections, or neurological disorders and results in excessive sweating across larger body areas.
Botulinum toxin, commonly known by brand names such as Botox®, Dysport®, and Xeomin®, is a neurotoxin produced by Clostridium botulinum. It works by temporarily blocking the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for activating sweat glands. By preventing this signal transmission, botulinum toxin effectively reduces excessive sweating in treated areas.
The administration of botulinum toxin for hyperhidrosis is a minimally invasive procedure performed in a clinical setting. The process includes the following steps:
The physician evaluates the severity and location of excessive sweating. In some cases, an iodine-starch test (Minor’s test) is conducted to identify the most affected areas.
The treatment area is cleaned, and a topical anaesthetic may be applied to minimize discomfort.
Small amounts of botulinum toxin are injected into the affected area using an extremely fine needle. The number of injections depends on the size of the treatment area.
Patients are advised to avoid:
- Excessive rubbing of the treated area
- Strenuous activities for five hours
- Rubbing alcohol-based deodorants or antiperspirants for five hours
Most patients experience a significant reduction in sweating within a few days of treatment, with maximum results appearing within two weeks. The effects typically last between 6 to 8 months, after which the treatment can be repeated to maintain results.
While botulinum toxin is generally safe, some individuals may experience mild side effects, including:
- Temporary pain or bruising at the injection site
- Flu-like symptoms (rare)
Serious complications are uncommon when the procedure is performed by a qualified medical professional.
- Non-surgical and minimally invasive
- Highly effective with a high patient satisfaction rate
- Rapid onset of action
- Long-lasting results
- The procedure needs to be repeated periodically
- Costly compared to other treatments such as antiperspirants or oral medications
- May not be suitable for individuals with certain neurological conditions
Botulinum toxin has revolutionized the management of hyperhidrosis, offering an effective and minimally invasive treatment option for those struggling with excessive sweating. While it may not be a permanent cure, its ability to provide significant relief and improve the quality of life makes it a valuable therapeutic tool. Consulting a healthcare professional can help determine whether this treatment is the right choice for an individual’s specific needs.
Dr. Alek Nikolic