Excessive Sweating (Hyperhidrosis)

The physical, social and emotional impacts of hyperhidrosis should not be underestimated. Many people with this condition say they feel embarrassed by sweat-damp clothing or shaking hands with cold, wet palms. They may avoid wearing certain types of clothing or attending social gatherings as a result. Hyperhidrosis may also limit their involvement in athletic or leisure activities that require manual dexterity. 

At work, people with hyperhidrosis report being less effective or accurate at what they do, and/or accomplishing fewer tasks because of their condition. This can limit their opportunities for professional growth and have negative economic implications.

At home, hyperhidrosis can affect personal relationships. Excessive sweating can make the prospect of physical intimacy daunting. Some who struggle with hyperhidrosis report feelings of social isolation and withdrawal in order to avoid touching others.

If you are sweating so heavily that it affects your quality of life, talk to a doctor about treatments that can help.

There are a variety of options of treatment for hyperhidrosis, with the use of muscle relaxants (also used as anti-wrinkle injections) being one of the most effective. The treatment works by temporarily stopping the sympathetic nerves (which normally control sweating) from stimulating the sweat glands. The treatment effect can last between 4-9 months.

A thorough consultation is required prior to treatment, to exclude any underlying conditions, and to establish a diagnosis.  Different treatment options will be discussed, and suitability for botulinum toxin treatment will be assessed.

During the procedure, the area to be treated will be cleaned with an antiseptic, and numbing cream may be used. The area will be marked with a grid pattern to allow for even distribution of the treatment. There are different options for analgesia depending on the area treated and an individual’s tolerance to discomfort.

There may be some mild swelling and soreness in the treatment area, however it should not prevent you from resuming normal activities after treatment. Exercise should be limited for the first 24 hours. Potential side effects include bruising, pinpoint bleeding or temporary muscle weakness. In general, muscle relaxants are safe and extensively studied, with a long track record of patient satisfaction.

Some patients notice an immediate reduction in sweat production, with improvement in the days following treatment. Full results become evident within about four weeks. The treatment effect can last between 6-9 months.

If you do not notice a significant reduction in sweating, or an area seems to have been missed, Dr Khinda can perform any necessary ‘touch-ups’ in a follow-up appointment.

Muscle relaxants are temporary. When the excessive perspiration returns, you can be retreated. 

When you are selecting a provider for your excessive sweating treatment, it is essential to choose a physician experienced in using muscle relaxants/anti-wrinkle injections.  Dr Parvin Khinda at Kaya Cosmedica has performed anti-ageing treatments on hundreds of patients using anti-wrinkle injections and also has treated numerous patients with hyperhidrosis using this method. She is qualified to help you overcome your excessive sweating, improving your comfort and your self-confidence.