Don't Sweat It
Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition characterised by excessive sweating beyond what is necessary to regulate body temperature. It can affect various body parts, such as the underarms, hands, feet, groin, and face, leading to social discomfort and emotional distress.
Hyperhidrosis can disrupt daily life, causing discomfort, embarrassment, and reduced self-confidence. Simple activities like shaking hands or raising your arms can become sources of anxiety for many people (1).
For some individuals, it's due to overactive sweat glands with no clear cause, a condition called primary hyperhidrosis. Others might experience secondary hyperhidrosis, where the excess sweating is a symptom of another medical condition like diabetes, thyroid issues, or even certain infections. Sometimes, factors like stress, your genetic makeup, or the medications you take can play a role.
When it comes to tackling hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, there are several medical treatments that can offer relief. Prescription-strength antiperspirants containing aluminium chloride hexahydrate or glycopyrronium are often the first line treatment, helping to significantly reduce sweat production. Medications known as anticholinergics may also be prescribed to reduce sweating across the body, but they usually come with unwanted side effects. For more persistent cases, injectable treatments can temporarily block the nerves that trigger sweat glands. Other alternative treatments includes procedures such as iontophoresis (a mild electrical current treatment) or even sympathectomy (nerve surgery) may be considered to provide long-term solutions.
Yes, injectable treatments are recognised as an effective treatment for hyperhidrosis, offering relief for those struggling with excessive sweating. Injections have been shown to reduce sweating by up to 75% with prolonged effects lasting 6 or more months (2).
Common side effects include temporary soreness or mild bruising at the injection sites. In rare cases, there can be flu-like symptoms, temporary weakening of nearby muscles and infection of the injection site. Most side effects are short-lived and resolve without any treatment. Having a trained medical professional perform the injections will minimise any risk of side effects.
Dr Jason Yu will first identify the areas of excessive sweating sometimes using a simple test called the starch iodine test. He will then mark the skin to ensure the right area is injected. A topical anaesthetic will be liberally applied to the injection site to minimise any pain and discomfort during the treatment. Afterwards, Dr Yu will then administer small injections into the affected areas using a tiny needle. The entire process typically takes less than an hour. While you may feel some minor discomfort during the injections, it's generally well-tolerated. Post-treatment, you can usually return to your daily activities immediately, with no downtime required.
After receiving injectable treatment for hyperhidrosis, many patients begin to notice a significant reduction in excessive sweating within 2 to 4 days, with the full effects typically becoming evident within 2 weeks.
Typically, the effects of Botox for hyperhidrosis can last anywhere from 3 to 9 months, depending on individual factors such as the severity of hyperhidrosis and how your body metabolises the medication. Some patients enjoy even longer periods of reduced sweating. Subsequent treatments after the initial treatment may also last longer and require less Anti-wrinkle.
The cost of Anti-wrinkle treatment for hyperhidrosis can vary, typically depending on the size of the treated area and the amount of product needed. Generally, it costs about $500 to $1000 for each area treated however, you may be eligible to get some of this back if you have hit the Medicare Safety Net threshold.
If you're ready to take control of your hyperhidrosis and experience the benefits of anti-wrinkle treatments, book an appointment with Dr Jason Yu. Located next to Redfern Station and close to Waterloo, Alexandria, Zetland, Erskineville and Marrickville, relief from excess sweating and newfound confidence is just an appointment away.
1. Hyperhidrosis: Management Options. John R. Mcconaghy, Daniel Fosselman. 11, s.l. : American Family Physician, 2018, Vol. 97.
2. Treatment of Hyperhidrosis With Botulinum Toxin. Melissa A. Doft, Krista L. Hardy, Jeffrey A. Ascherman. 2, s.l. : Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 2012, Vol. 32.
