Introduction:
Hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, is a medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Excessive sweating can occur in several parts of the body including the underarms, palms, feet, and forehead. High temperatures, anxiety or certain medications may increase perspiration, but they do not cause hyperhidrosis. Although the exact cause of hyperhidrosis is unknown, it appears to be an inherited trait that stops the body from regulating its temperature properly.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
Hyperhidrosis can be successfully treated in most people with botulinum injections. The most commonly treated areas are the underarms. The palms may also be treated. Botulinum targets the sweating at its source. When injected, the botulinum enters the glands in the area treated. There it blocks the release of a chemical that signals the perspiration.
Treating hyperhidrosis with botulinum is a simple procedure which takes fifteen minutes, and has no down-time. The process involves the application of topical anaesthetic cream and then injecting the area with tiny needles. The treatment involves minimal discomfort and is performed by a medical practitioner who specializes in these treatments.
Treatments with botulinum for hyperhidrosis last for an average 7.5 to 9 months, depending on the individual. Treatments do not need to be repeated until the excessive perspiration symptoms recur.
Botulinum has been used worldwide since 1989 to treat many conditions including cerebral palsy in children, and movement disorders. Botulinum is now used for cosmetic procedures, back spasm, pelvic pain and for certain ophthalmologic conditions. Side affects are uncommon and include the occasional mild transient localized tenderness (lasting one day) and the occasional minor bruise. Treatments are not performed in pregnant or breast feeding ladies.
