BOTOX FOR EXCESSIVE SWEATING

WHAT IS HYPERHYDROSIS?

Sweating is a natural body function needed for the regulation of body temperature. The secretion of sweat is controlled by the sympathetic nervous system. In approximately 1% of the population, the nerves are over-stimulated and sweat is produced far greater than is needed to keep a constant temperature. This condition is referred to as Hyperhydrosis. Excessive sweating may be episodic or continuous and may be caused by warm weather, emotional stress or for no reason at all. It may be part of an underlying medical condition or be of unknown cause (this is the most common). The hands feet and armpits are the most common locations. The condition usually starts during adolescence and is life long. Nervousness and anxiety can precipitate excessive sweating.
 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

WHAT IS BOTOX?

Botox is the trade name for a highly purified, naturally occurring protein that is produced by the bacterium Clostridium Botulinum. Botox has a number of therapeutic uses, one which, is as a muscle relaxant. Botox placed into a specific muscle relaxes the muscle and prevents contraction.

HOW DOES BOTOX STOP HYPERHYDROSIS?

It blocks the release of the chemical responsible for the stimulation of sweat glands - acetycholine.

HOW IS BOTOX GIVEN?

The area to be injected is treated first with a topical anesthetic. The Botox is then injected via a very small needle, into the sweat glands in the affected area.

WHEN WILL BOTOX TAKE EFFECT?

Sweating will be decreased by 90% within 48 hours and the full effect will be seen within one week. There may be simultaneous disappearance of odor associated with decreased sweating, but this is not consistent.

HOW LONG DO THE EFFECTS LAST?

Normally the effects from a single treatment of Botox will last about four to six months. Usually Botox treatments are required only two to three times a year.

WHEN CAN I RESUME NORMAL ACTIVITES?

You may resume normal activities immediately, but avoid heavy exercise for several hours.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS:

Some bruising, which will fade in few days.

Small persistent areas of sweating which may require a second treatment.