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Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating) PDF

• Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)

(Excessive sweating treatment for underarms, hands, feet, and more)

What Is Hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition that causes excessive sweating beyond what the body needs to regulate temperature. It can affect:

  • Underarms (axillary hyperhidrosis)

  • Hands (palmar hyperhidrosis)

  • Feet (plantar hyperhidrosis)

  • Face or scalp

  • Other localized areas

Hyperhidrosis can interfere with daily activities, work, social situations, and confidence. It is not caused by poor hygiene and is often related to overactive sweat glands.

Types of Hyperhidrosis

Primary (Focal) Hyperhidrosis

  • Most common type

  • Often begins in childhood or adolescence

  • Typically affects specific areas (underarms, hands, feet)

  • Often runs in families

Secondary Hyperhidrosis

  • Caused by an underlying medical condition or medication

  • May affect larger areas of the body

  • Requires evaluation and possible additional testing

Your dermatologist will determine which type you have and recommend appropriate treatment.

How Is Hyperhidrosis Treated?

Treatment depends on the severity and location.

Common treatment options include:

  • Prescription-strength topical antiperspirants

  • Botulinum toxin (Botox® or similar) injections

  • Oral medications (selected cases)

  • Device-based treatments (depending on availability)

  • Lifestyle and trigger management

💉 Botox for Hyperhidrosis

Botox works by temporarily blocking the nerve signals that stimulate sweat glands.

  • FDA-approved for underarm hyperhidrosis

  • Results often last 3–6 months or longer

  • Quick in-office treatment

What to Expect During Botox Treatment

  1. The treatment area is cleansed

  2. A topical numbing agent may be applied

  3. Small injections are placed in a grid pattern

  4. Treatment usually takes 15–30 minutes

Discomfort is typically mild and temporary.

When Will I See Results?

  • Improvement often begins within 3–7 days

  • Maximum effect at about 2 weeks

  • Results typically last several months

  • Maintenance treatments may be scheduled as needed

Who Is a Good Candidate?

You may be a good candidate if you:

  • Experience excessive sweating that interferes with daily life

  • Have tried over-the-counter products without success

  • Are healthy and able to undergo in-office procedures

Your dermatologist will review your medical history to ensure safe treatment.

Pre-Op Instructions (Before Treatment)

For Botox Treatment:

  • Avoid shaving underarms 24 hours before treatment

  • Avoid aspirin or NSAIDs (if medically safe) for several days to reduce bruising

  • Do not apply deodorant or lotion the day of treatment

  • Inform us if you:

    • Are pregnant or breastfeeding

    • Have neuromuscular disorders

    • Take blood thinners

    • Have active skin infection in the area

Post-Op Instructions (After Treatment)

What’s Normal:

  • Mild redness or swelling at injection sites

  • Temporary tenderness

  • Small bruises (occasionally)

Aftercare:

  • Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours

  • Avoid massaging or rubbing the area

  • You may resume deodorant use the next day (unless instructed otherwise)

  • Stay upright for several hours after injection

Call the Office If:

  • You develop increasing pain, swelling, or signs of infection

  • You notice unusual muscle weakness (rare)

  • Symptoms do not improve after 2–3 weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) common?

Yes. It affects millions of people and is more common than many realize.

Hyperhidrosis is not typically dangerous, but it can significantly impact quality of life.

Botox significantly reduces sweating in treated areas. Some mild sweating may remain.

Most patients experience relief for 3–6 months or longer, depending on the area.

Underarm hyperhidrosis treatment may be covered when medically necessary. Coverage varies by plan.

Yes. Because treatment is temporary, maintenance sessions are usually needed.

Side effects are generally mild and temporary. Serious complications are rare when performed by trained professionals.