Hyperhidrosis is a troublesome condition that occurs more frequently in men than in women, significantly hindering daily activities and quality of life. If left untreated, it leads to limitations in professional activities and social interactions. Therefore, it is worth starting treatment for hyperhidrosis.
Doctors distinguish between focal hyperhidrosis, which affects the underarms (approx. 30-40% cases), feet, hands, and forehead, as well as generalised hyperhidrosis affecting the entire body.
The most popular and effective method for combating excessive sweating is botulinum toxin therapy, which works by blocking the connections between nerve endings and the exocrine glands they innervate (blocking so-called synapses).
Precise injection of problematic areas using botulinum toxin blocks nerves supplying sweat glands, preventing sweat secretion.
TREATMENT OF HYPERHIDROSIS – indications
- excessive and bothersome sweating of the hands, feet, and armpits
TREATMENT OF EXCESSIVE SWEATING – EFFECTS
The effects of the therapy can be observed within a few days, but full results take 7-14 days to appear, after which a follow-up appointment takes place to re-administer the Minor test and potentially give a booster injection of the medication.
Botulinum toxin therapy blocks hyperhidrosis for a period of 4-10 months. The duration of the effects is individual and depends on many factors.
Repeating the treatments allows this effect to be prolonged.
For patients in whom botulinum toxin shows unsatisfactory effects, it is worth considering ultrasound or radiofrequency treatment.
TREATMENT OF HYPERHIDROSIS – the procedure
Before the procedure, the doctor performs the Minor test, also known as the iodine-starch test, during which the area designated for the procedure is coated with iodine and sprinkled with starch. Areas with excessive sweating change colour to black, allowing the doctor to clearly see which areas require particular treatment. The procedure is performed after the patient has been anaesthetised with a special cream. The doctor uses a very fine, sterile needle to make precise intradermal injections of the preparation.
TREATMENT OF HYPERHIDROSIS – contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to the active substances or excipients contained in the preparation
- Infection at injection sites
- Neurological disorders
- The use of aminoglycoside antibiotics (amikacin, tobramycin, gentamicin)
- Use of drugs affecting neuromuscular transmission
- Muscle weakness, presence of myasthenia gravis, Eaton Lambert syndrome, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or other chronic muscle diseases
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding
