Do you find yourself changing clothes multiple times a day, constantly going to the bathroom just to freshen up or always carrying a handkerchief or two so you can keep your hands dry?
If so, you are probably suffering from a medical condition known as hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating. There are millions of people all over the world who suffer from this condition, though unfortunately, only few are aware enough of it to come in for diagnosis and treatment. This site is an attempt to change that, with the aim of letting you know more about hyperhidrosis and its available treatments, one of which is Botox for sweating.
What Is Hyperhidrosis?
Hyperhidrosis occurs when the sweat glands become overactive, causing them to produce too much perspiration. It can be secondary, which means it is associated with another medical condition, or primary, which means it occurs on its own.
The exact cause for primary hyperhidrosis is unknown, though experts say it is inherited and can be aggravated by certain foods and drinks, as well as nervousness and excitement.
The most common type of hyperhidrosis is palmar hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating of the hands. Other types include axillary hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating of the armpits, plantar hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating of the feet, and facial hyperhidrosis, all of which can be treated by Botox for sweating.
Why Botox for Sweating?
Botox, short for Botulinum Toxin A, is more commonly known for its cosmetic purposes, particularly for eliminating frown lines, wrinkles and other signs of facial aging. It can also be used for therapeutic purposes, though, most especially for the treatment of excessive sweating.
Botox works by inhibiting the release of certain neurotransmitters. In the case of Botox for sweating, it prevents the nerves from sending a signal to the sweat glands, and so prevents perspiration altogether. This will only happen to the area that has been injected, though, with other nerves in other areas of the body still able to fully perform their functions.
The results have been fairly successful, though there are some downsides, too. For one, there can be significant pain, especially in the case of Botox for hand sweating. The effect also lasts only a few months so the injections have to be repeated over time.
Botox for sweating cost is usually higher than Botox for cosmetic purposes, mainly because more Botox units are used. Then again, this is shouldered by some insurance companies.