What is Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis is the medical term for the common problem of excessive perspiration. Sweating is a natural function of the body used to regulate internal temperature. For sufferers of Hyperhidrosis, the sweating is far in excess of this natural regulatory requirement. Excessive sweating can affect, under the arms, hands and feet, and the face. One or all of these areas may be affected. The sweating itself is not usually harmful, however, the condition can be distressing and impact severely on peoples quality of life. Hyperhidrosis is caused by problems with the nervous system, doctors believe the part of the brain that regulates sweating sending inappropriate signals to the eccrine gland. Suffers often have a relative with the condition which suggests it there may be a genetic link.
Suffers from excessive sweating should contact their GP to ensure there is no underlying condition causing the sweating. The GP will take a sample of blood and urine and if no cause for the sweating can be established then the diagnosis will be primary hyperhidrosis. One of the most successful treatments for hyperhidrosis is Botox, also known as botulinum toxin. Botox is most well known for treating facial wrinkles by paralysing parts of the face. Botox can be injected into any of the areas where excessive sweating occurs. Between ten and twenty injections are made during the procedure, which takes around 30 to 45 minutes. These injections are believed to prevent the sweat glands from working by blocking the signal from the brain. The injections will work fully within ten days and can last for up to eight months.
Availability and Costs
Botox for hyperhidrosis can be available on the NHS, but this depends on the individuals needs and the policy of the individual primary care trust. The treatment is also available privately across the UK. Costs for the treatment will depend on how many areas are sweating and the severity of the sweating. Costs for injections into both armpits typically costs £300 to £500 and botox for both hands can cost from £250 a hand. The treatment can create some discomfort from the injections, especially in the hands, and feet. In these cases, a local anaesthetic can be applied. This will be an ongoing cost as it is not a permanent solution.
Other treatments for Hyperhidrosis are available both privately and on the NHS. Antiperspirants which include Aluminum Chloride help many people or Iontophoresis, a water based treatment available on the NHS. For extreme cases surgery is available. Laser Sweat Ablation removes the sweat glands. Doctors also recommend life style changes to manage the condition such as avoiding trigger foods, wear loose clothes made from natural fibres and wearing shoes made from leather rather than man-made materials.