Excessive Sweating

Excessive Sweating

Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) in the armpits, hands and feet can be a cause of embarrassment. It is also physically uncomfortable and may have a negative impact on one's quality of life. A number of non-surgical treatments are available to treat hyperhidrosis, and in turn reduce the emotional, social and physical impact of this condition. Botox injections are particularly popular for troublesome areas such as the underarms, and often produce results that last months.

 
Excessive Sweating

Topical medications

Prescription medications containing anywhere between 12-20% aluminum chloride are highly potent antiperspirants that can reduce sweating on the hands and feet, as well as the underarms. These are usually effective with daily use but may cause skin irritations in some people.

  • Iontophoresis
    Iontophoresis is a procedure that entails water conducting an electrical current from an electronic device through the skin's surface, inhibiting sweat production. About 70-80% of patients respond to iontophoresis. This can be carried out as a home treatment. Regular treatments are needed to control the sweating.
  • Botox (Botulinum toxin) injections
    Botox works by interrupting the chemical messages released by nerve endings that tell the sweat gland when to sweat. It is injected in minute quantities into the skin of the armpits, palms or soles of the feet with a tiny needle. One treatment usually suppresses sweating for six to nine months.