Excessive sweating is a problem that can cause not only physical discomfort, but also serious aesthetic and social difficulties. When standard methods, such as antiperspirants or lifestyle changes, fail, it is worth trying effective treatments for hyperhidrosis, including botulinum toxin injections.
Treatment for hyperhidrosis is recommended for people who struggle with excessive sweating that is disproportionate to the ambient temperature or physical activity. Hyperhidrosis can be primary (without a clear cause) or secondary, associated with conditions such as thyroid disease, diabetes, stress, or the side effects of certain medications. In any case, it is worth consulting a doctor who will rule out any medical causes and suggest appropriate treatment.
Excessive sweating is most often caused by increased activity of the eccrine sweat glands, which are located on the surface of the entire skin – especially in the armpits, on the palms, feet, and even the face. Excessive sweat secretion may be the result of disorders of the nervous system (primarily the sympathetic nervous system) and overproduction of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for sweat secretion.
The most effective method of treating localized hyperhidrosis is botulinum toxin therapy. Botulinum toxin (Botox) works by blocking the release of acetylcholine, which leads to the inhibition of sweat gland activity. The effects of the treatment usually last from 6 to 9 months.
The procedure is minimally invasive, performed under local anesthesia, and the patient can return to their daily activities on the same day.
The most common locations for hyperhidrosis include:
The Minor test (iodine and starch test) is used in diagnosis to precisely determine the area of excessive sweating.
The available methods include:
are currently the gold standard in the treatment of excessive sweating of the armpits, hands, and feet. Treatment of excessive sweating with botulinum toxin:
is almost painless (performed after applying anesthesia),
lasts only a few minutes,
brings quick and long-lasting results.
The effects of treating hyperhidrosis with botulinum toxin are visible after just a few days, and patients can get rid of their excessive sweating problem without having to give up their daily activities.