Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition which causes the nerves responsible for causing sweating to become overactive and cause excessive perspiration. This problem usually worsens when people are experiencing stress, anxiety or nervousness. Patients who suffer from hyperhidrosis typically start to notice symptoms during their teens years or as young adults. Although genetics are believed to be a contributing factor, the true cause of this condition is not known. Severe sweating often occurs spontaneously but can be inflamed by emotion or exercise.
Excessive sweating can also lead to other unpleasant conditions like body odor. In some cases, patients tend to sweat so profusely that they have to change clothing several times a day.
Typically, the first treatment people try is an over-the-counter anti-perspirants/deodorant. Often times these treatments will help for a short time, and lose effectiveness. The next resort a doctor’s visit. Doctors can prescribe prescription strength anti-perspirants/deodorants and creams, which can help for some people. However, these are not always effective.
Botox is actually an FDA approved method to treat excessive sweating. At the Skin Care Center at Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery, this is one of the options we use to treat hyperhidrosis. This minimally invasive treatment is a great option to help patients that have been inadequately managed with topical agents. The Botox treatment is performed by using tiny injections to treat the underarm area. It blocks the signals that stimulate the eccrine glands that produce sweat. Although effective, the results are temporary, usually lasting around 6 months.
For a more permanent solution to excessive underarm sweating, we recommend miraDry. MiraDry is a non-invasive, permanent solution for sweating. It is FDA approved for the treatment of hyperhidrosis and can permanently stop your underarm sweating in as little as one treatment. MiraDry uses thermal energy to deactivate the sweat glands in the underarm region. During the procedure, the area is numbed for comfort, then each section of the underarm is gently pulled into the device, where it is heated, essentially killing those sweat glands. Most patients that undergo this procedure describe the procedure as not painful but mildly uncomfortable, with some soreness and swelling in the days that follow. Swelling typically subsides within a week but the results are immediate and permanent.
If you suffer from excessive sweating and are ready to find a real solution, schedule a free consultation with one of our skin care experts at The Skin Care Center at Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery.
