Botox For Hyperhidrosis | Excessive Sweating
Chronically sweating in particular areas of the body can be uncomfortable and/or embarrassing for many men and women, frequently leading to feelings of self-consciousness in the workplace, social settings, or even intimate situations. Thankfully, individuals suffering from hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) in the underarms can find a simple solution in the form of BOTOX® injections.
In addition to its ability to smooth facial lines and wrinkles, BOTOX® can temporarily prevent chemical nerve signals from triggering sweat glands, helping to stop the production of perspiration in the targeted treatment region(s). Performed in-office by our Phoenix, Arizona Physicians and registered nurses, this quick and easy procedure can be an excellent option for anyone troubled by excessive sweating.
What causes hyperhidrosis/excessive sweating?
Hyperhidrosis is caused by the overactivity of the eccrine sweat glands. In rare instances, there may be an underlying medical or metabolic reason for the condition, but in most cases, hyperhidrosis occurs in people who are otherwise healthy. While heat and emotions may trigger excessive sweating in some, many people who suffer from hyperhidrosis sweat most of the time, regardless of their mood or the air temperature.
How is hyperhidrosis/excessive sweating treated?
The first line of treatment is usually over-the-counter or prescription antiperspirants, which work by blocking sweat ducts in order to reduce the amount of perspiration. If antiperspirants are unsuccessful, other treatment options may include oral medications or iontophoresis, a procedure that uses water and electrical current to combat the production of sweat. One of the most successful treatments for hyperhidrosis is BOTOX®.*
How does BOTOX® treat hyperhidrosis/excessive sweating?
BOTOX® is FDA-approved to treat severe underarm sweating when topical medications do not work. BOTOX® is a natural, purified protein. When injected into the affected areas, BOTOX® temporarily blocks the chemical signals from the nerves that stimulate the sweat glands, stopping the production of sweat in the treated areas. While BOTOX® is not currently FDA-approved for the treatment of excessive sweating in the hands and feet, many doctors have successfully administered BOTOX® in those areas as off-label use.
What should I expect during BOTOX® treatment for hyperhidrosis/excessive sweating?
BOTOX® treatment for hyperhidrosis is performed on an outpatient basis in our offices. Before the procedure, an iodine sweat test is performed by applying iodine and starch powder to the underarm area. This will help to delineate the areas of maximal sweat production. Using an ultra-fine needle, small amounts of BOTOX® are injected into multiple targeted sites across the treatment area. To ensure patient comfort, topical numbing cream is offered prior to the treatment, although it’s not necessary. For treatment of the hands and feet, topical numbing cream will be used as well, and a local block may also be offered. The procedure usually takes about 20 minutes.*
What should I expect after BOTOX® treatment for hyperhidrosis/excessive sweating?
You can return to your normal activities with no restrictions immediately after treatment. The effects will become apparent during the first week after treatment, and you should notice a significant reduction in sweating within the first 4 weeks.*
How Many Botox Units are Needed to Treat Underarm Hyperhidrosis (excessive Sweat)?
On average, our Physicians and Nurses use 50 units of Botox per side or 100 units total for most patients. The actual procedure takes less than 10 minutes.
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