Excessive Sweating (Hyperhidrosis)

shutterstock_166109411

Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis is a disorder characterised by the increased production of sweat from the body and is estimated to affect about 3% of the general population, affecting both men and woman equally.

Sweat blocker injections with small doses of a purified proteins are an incredibly effective way to stop excessive sweating and have been approved by the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Due to TGA restrictions in Australia, we are unable to mention drug or brand names on this website.

How effective is the treatment?

Sweat blocker injections have been shown to to reduce sweating by 80-90% by blocking the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is responsible for activating your sweat glands. Results start to be noticeable approximately 2 to 4 days after treatment with the full effects usually noted within 2 weeks. Dryness typically lasts for 6 to 12 months but some studies have found it can last as long as 14 months.

Dr Zammar only performs treatment for hyperhidrosis of the underarms.  Treatment for palmar sweating may cause temporary pain and weakness in the hands, whilst evidence suggests treatment for other body parts such as plantar hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating of the feet) is less effective and more painful.

The starch-iodine test is often performed prior to treatment, this will help locate the main areas of sweat production from the glands (dark spots as shown below) and optimise the amount of injections required.

  img_5923fullsizerender2fullsizerender3

Do the injections hurt?

The pain has been described as similar to that of a sharp pinch or ant bite, lasting only for a few seconds. Some patients don’t even feel the injections, as the needles used are very small.

How much does it cost?

The cost of treatment ranges from $800-1000 for both underarms. Most patient’s who suffer from hyperhidrosis will consider this money well spent and continue with ongoing treatments due to the huge gains in their quality of life.

What are the possible side effects?

Most common side effects from treatment include discomfort, burning, redness or bruising at the injection site. These side effects are temporary and will normally resolve within 24-48 hours.

When is Botulinum treatment not recommended?

Treatment with muscle relaxers is not recommended for pregnant or breast-feeding women, any patient with a medical condition of a neuro-muscular type such as myasthenia gravis and certain neurological disorders; or if there is any sign of infection at the proposed injection site. Caution should also be exercised in patients taking blood thinning medication as this may cause excessive bruising around the injection site.

References

Connolly M, de Berker D, Management of primary hyperhidrosis. Am J Clin Dermatol 2003;4:681–97.

Solish N, Bertucci V, Dansereua A, et al. A comprehensive approach to the recognition, diagnosis, and severity-based treatment of focal hyperhidrosis: Recommendations of the Canadian Hyperhidrosis Advisory Committee. Dermatol Surg 2007;33:908–23.

Strutton D, Kowalsk J, Glaser D, et al. U.S prevalence of hyperhidrosis and impact on individuals with axillary hyperhidrosis: results from a national survey. J Am Acad Dermatol 2004;51:241–8