EXCESSIVE SWEATING OR HYPERHIDROSIS

What is hyperhidrosis ?

Hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, is an overproduction of sweat by the sweat glands. This condition often has a social and professional impact.
About 5% of the population is affected. Hyperhidrosis may be generalized or localized to specific areas of the body, such as the hands, armpits and feet. In these cases, it is often bilateral.

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Key Points

Treating excessive sweating with Botox in Geneva 

In cases of excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis, sweat production is abnormally high. Axillary hyperhidrosis is common, but various parts of the body can be affected, such as the hands, feet and face.
Symptoms include sweaty palms, persistent sweating on the forehead, and sweat stains on clothing, especially under the arms.

People suffering from hyperhidrosis may opt for Botox injections, which are a safe and effective treatment to reduce the symptoms of excessive sweating. The quality of life of affected individuals is improved. Doctor Romano is a member of the International Hyperhidrosis Society and performs hyperhidrosis treatments in Geneva.

What are the symptoms of excessive sweating?

photo symptoms excessive sweating
  • Heavy sweating : sweat production that exceeds the needs of thermoregulation.
  • Affected areas : the most commonly affected regions are the armpits, palms of the hands, soles of the feet and the face. However, any part of the body may be affected. This includes palmar hyperhidrosis, plantar hyperhidrosis, and axillary hyperhidrosis.
  • Humidité constante : sensation constante de moiteur ou d’humidité sur la peau, même sans activité physique ou chaleur.
  • Sweat stains : frequent appearance of sweat marks on clothing, especially under the arms.
  • Mains et pieds mouillés : les mains et les pieds peuvent être constamment moites, rendant difficile la manipulation d’objets ou la marche.
  • Body odor : although sweat itself is odorless, excessive sweating may cause unpleasant odors due to bacteria on the skin.
  • Irritations cutanées : la peau peut s’irriter et macérer, à cause de l’humidité constante, ce qui provoque des éruptions cutanées ou des mycoses.
  • Impact on daily life : embarrassment, social anxiety, impact on quality of life with limitations in daily and social activities.

These symptoms vary in intensity and may be more or less bothersome depending on the individual.

What causes excessive sweating ?

Sweating is a physiological mechanism necessary for maintaining body temperature. We have around 3 million sweat glands.
Excessive sweating often begins at puberty and can have several causes.

  • Primary hyperhidrosis : this form of excessive sweating appears without any underlying medical cause and is often hereditary. It generally affects specific areas such as the armpits, hands, feet and face.
    It is often triggered by emotional factors or stressful situations.
  • Conditions médicales sous-jacentes : l’hyperhidrose peut être secondaire à des troubles médicaux.
    • Les troubles endocriniens (par exemple, l’hyperthyroïdie).
    • Infectious diseases.
    • Neurological disorders.
  • Réactions médicamenteuses : l’effet secondaire de certains médicaments est la transpiration excessive.
  • Facteurs environnementaux : une chaleur excessive ou un taux d’humidité élevé peuvent aggraver la transpiration.


Factors that may trigger a ‘sweating crisis’ include :

  • Stress.
  • Anxiety.
  • Emotional sensitivity.
  • Stimulants : tea, coffee, taurine.

How to stop excessive sweating ?

Treatments for hyperhidrosis include :

  • Surgery.
  • Iontophoresis.
  • Medication (psychotropic drugs).
  • Psychotherapy.
  • Les injections de Botox. Les injections de Botox sont une solution efficace et rapide qui ne cause pas d’éviction sociale.

Why treat excessive sweating ?

Treating excessive sweating improves the patient’s physical well-being, emotional health and social life.
In fact, hyperhidrosis can cause significant physical discomfort due to constantly wet clothing and frequent skin irritation. Hyperhidrosis has a significant impact on social and emotional quality of life. Affected individuals may develop social phobia, avoiding interactions and public situations for fear of sweating ‘crises’. This can lead to decreased self-confidence, social isolation and deterioration of mental health.

image excessive perspiration treatment with botox

Botox underarms : Botox treatment for sweating

The principle of Botox injections is to block the nerve stimulation reaching the sweat glands. Doctor Romano is a member of the International Hyperhidrosis Society and follows the guidelines of Swiss scientific societies, a summary of which is available in the Revue Médicale Suisse. Although this injection can be performed on any part of the body, Doctor Romano only uses it to treat excessive sweating on the forehead and underarms. The doctor considers injections in the hands and feet potentially dangerous.

Botulinum toxin injections in the soles of the feet

Les injections de toxine botulique au niveau plantaire ciblent l’hyperhidrose des pieds réduisant la production de sueur dans cette zone souvent difficile à traiter. Ce traitement aide à diminuer l’inconfort et à prévenir les infections fongiques ou bactériennes liées à une transpiration excessive.

Botulinum toxin injections on the hands

Botulinum toxin injections in the hands are effective in treating excessive sweating of the palms, which can be bothersome in social and professional interactions.

Botulinum toxin injections on the forehead

Les injections de toxine botulique au niveau du front sont utilisées pour traiter l’hyperhidrose faciale, particulièrement la transpiration excessive du front. En relaxant les glandes sudoripares, ce traitement permet de contrôler la production de sueur et d’améliorer le confort quotidien pendant environ 4 à 6 mois.

Botulinum toxin injections on the face

Les injections de toxine botulique sur le visage ciblent spécifiquement des zones comme le front, les joues et les tempes, où la transpiration excessive peut être gênante. Elles aident à réduire l’hypersudation sans affecter l’expression faciale. Néanmoins les diffusions sont fréquentes ce qui peut causer des troubles fonctionnels et esthétiques.

What areas of the body can be treated for excessive sweating with Botox injections ?

Doctor Romano limits the use of Botox to the underarms and does not perform injections on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet.
In fact, using Botox in these areas can cause sensory disturbances that may be bothersome or even dangerous.
Reduced sensitivity in the palms may compromise the ability to safely grasp objects. Reduced sensitivity in the soles of the feet may lead to falls.
Underarm treatment is safe and comfortable.

Contraindications of Botox treatment for excessive sweating

Le traitement par Botox, bien que généralement sûr et efficace pour réduire la transpiration excessive, présente certaines contre-indications à prendre en compte. Ce traitement n’est pas recommandé dans les cas suivants :

  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
  • Egg allergy : albumin is present in the preparation of Botox.
  • Infections or lesions at the treatment site.
  • Neuromuscular diseases.
  • Bleeding disorders or use of anticoagulants : this contraindication is relative and should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Indications for Botox treatment of hyperhidrosis

hypersudation treatment with botox

Le traitement de l’hypersudation par Botox est recommandé dans plusieurs situations.

  • Symptômes d’hyperhidrose : cette technique est particulièrement indiquée pour les patients présentant des symptômes marqués de hyperhidrose : des auréoles de sueur sous les bras, des mains moites et une transpiration excessive au niveau du visage et des pieds.
  • First-line treatment : for some individuals, Botox may be offered as a first-line treatment due to its proven effectiveness and quick results.
  • Échec des autres traitements : le Botox est également indiqué pour les patients qui n’ont pas obtenu de résultats satisfaisants avec d’autres traitements (antitranspirants, les médicaments, les thérapies comportementales).
  • Quality of life : individuals whose excessive sweating significantly affects their social and professional life may turn to this solution.
  • Safety and tolerance : Botox is a well-tolerated treatment option with minimal side effects, making it a safe method for improving quality of life.

How is Botox injected for excessive sweating ?

Le traitement de l’hyperhidrose par injections de Botox est une procédure simple et rapide réalisée en cabinet médical. La durée de l’acte (des injections ) est d’environ une minute.

Initial consultation
Lors de la première visite, le docteur Romano analyse la sévérité de l’hyperhidrose et discute avec le patient pour s’assurer de l’absence de contre-indications et pour évaluer l’intérêt des injections de Botox .

Preparation of the area
The area to be treated, often the underarms, is disinfected. A topical anaesthetic or ice may be applied.

Marking
Doctor Romano marks the injection points for an even distribution of Botox. These points are generally spaced 1 to 2 centimetres apart.

Injection
Using a fine needle, Doctor Romano injects small amounts of Botox just under the skin at each marked point.

Number of Botox vials
Two to three vials of Botox are needed to treat both underarms.

Post-treatment
No recovery time is needed; patients can resume their activities immediately after the session.

Are Botox injections for sweating painful ?

Botox injections for sweating may cause some discomfort, but the pain is generally mild. The procedure involves multiple small superficial injections. To reduce discomfort, a topical anaesthetic or an ice pack can be applied before the session. Most patients describe a tingling sensation or slight burning. There is no pain after the injection.

Are Botox injections effective against sweating ?

Yes, Botox injections are very effective in treating excessive sweating, particularly in the underarms. Botox works by blocking the nerve signals that stimulate the sweat glands, thereby reducing sweat production.

How long does it take for Botox to work against underarm hyperhidrosis ?

The effects usually begin to appear a few days after treatment and last for about 6 months. To maintain the results, maintenance sessions are needed once or twice a year.

Results before / after botox injections for excessive sweating

The results of Botox injections for excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis, are quick.

  • Significant reduction in sweat production.
  • Improved quality of life and daily comfort.
  • Diminution des irritations cutanées et des mycoses liées à l’humidité.
  • Increased self-confidence in social and professional interactions.
  • Visible reduction of sweat stains on clothing.

Duration of results

The effects of Botox injections are noticeable a few days after the treatment and reach their peak after one week. Results typically last between 4 and 6 months.

What is the price of a Botox injection for hyperhidrosis ?

The price of Botox for excessive sweating depends primarily on the amount of product used.
The first vial is priced at 500 CHF, and each additional vial is charged at 350 CHF. Depending on the severity of the sweating and the surface area to be treated, between one and four vials may be required.
The total cost is therefore determined on a personalised basis during the medical consultation.

Reviews on Botox treatment for excessive sweating

Is Botox effective against excessive sweating ? Botox treatment for excessive sweating is well known for its effectiveness and fast results.

  • Efficacité : de nombreux patients constatent une réduction significative de la transpiration dans les jours suivant l’injection.
  • Sécurité : le Botox est un traitement bien toléré et sûr lorsqu’il est administré par des professionnels qualifiés. Les effets secondaires sont rares et généralement temporaires.
  • Comfort : patients report a noticeable improvement in their quality of life. They can wear the clothes they want without worrying about sweat stains or unpleasant odours.
  • Simplicity : the treatment is quick, usually performed in under 30 minutes, and requires no recovery time, allowing patients to resume their normal activities immediately afterward.

How to treat excessive sweating naturally ?

photo stop excessive sweating naturally

Unfortunately, there is no natural method to stop hyperhidrosis. However, certain habits can help improve daily comfort.

  • Regular hygiene : take regular showers with antibacterial soap to remove the bacteria responsible for unpleasant odours.
  • Vêtements appropriés : privilégier les vêtements en fibres naturelles comme le coton, le lin ou le bambou qui permettent à la peau de respirer. Il faut éviter les tissus synthétiques qui retiennent la chaleur et l’humidité.
  • Alimentation équilibrée : éviter les aliments épicés, la caféine et l’alcool, qui augmentent la transpiration. Il est conseillé de consommer des aliments riches en eau comme les fruits et légumes.
  • Hydratation : boire beaucoup d’eau pour réguler la température corporelle et réduire la transpiration.
  • Herbs and supplements : some herbs, like sage, are known for their anti-perspirant properties. Sage herbal teas can be consumed regularly.
  • Stress management : practise relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation or deep breathing to reduce stress, a trigger for sweating ‘crises’.
  • Natural antiperspirants : use natural antiperspirants made with baking soda and essential oils, which can help reduce sweating.
  • Perte de poids : l’excès de poids peut contribuer à une production accrue de sueur.

How do I know if I have hyperhidrosis ?

L’hyperhidrose, ou transpiration excessive, se manifeste généralement par une sudation abondante, imprévisible et non liée à la température ambiante ou à l’activité physique. Les personnes qui en souffrent peuvent remarquer des gouttes de sueur qui perlent sur leur peau ou des vêtements constamment humides, même dans des situations de repos ou de stress minimal. Les zones les plus fréquemment touchées sont les aisselles, les paumes des mains, les pieds et le visage. Si cette transpiration excessive interfère avec vos activités quotidiennes, provoque une gêne sociale ou émotionnelle, ou nécessite des changements fréquents de vêtements, il est possible que vous souffriez d’hyperhidrose. Un diagnostic médical est essentiel pour évaluer l’intensité des symptômes et identifier les éventuelles causes sous-jacentes.

Excessive sweating : when to see a doctor ?

Consulter un médecin devient nécessaire lorsque la transpiration excessive affecte de manière significative votre qualité de vie ou lorsque des symptômes inhabituels apparaissent, tels qu’une transpiration excessive localisée, une sueur nocturne inexpliquée, une perte de poids inexpliquée, ou une transpiration accompagnée de douleurs thoraciques, d’essoufflement ou de fièvre. Un médecin pourra évaluer si la transpiration est le signe d’une condition médicale sous-jacente, comme une infection, un trouble hormonal, ou une autre pathologie.

Blog articles on excessive sweating

What are the symptoms of excessive sweating ?
How does Botox work on excessive sweating ?
What is the best natural antiperspirant ?
Treating excessive sweating or hyperhidrosis : reviews
Can Botox for hyperhidrosis cause compensatory sweating in other parts of the body ?
What is the price of a botulinum toxin injection for excessive sweating ?
Treating excessive sweating with Botox : before/after results
Is axillary Botox injection effective in treating excessive sweating ?
How can excessive sweating be managed on a daily basis ?
What are the causes of excessive sweating ?
Which areas of the body can be treated for excessive sweating with Botox injections ?
What are the criteria to be a good candidate for Botox against excessive sweating ?
What are the possible side effects after a Botox injection for excessive sweating ?
How does a Botox injection session for excessive sweating take place ?
Are Botox injections for excessive sweating painful ?
What is hyperhidrosis ?

Which hormone causes sweating ?

Perspiration is mainly regulated by the hormone called adrenaline (or epinephrine). Adrenaline is released in response to stress, excitement or "fight or flight" situations. This hormone stimulates the sweat glands, increasing perspiration.

Sweating profusely for no reason can be due to a number of factors.

  • Primary hyperhidrosis: caused by overactivity of the sweat glands for no apparent medical reason.
  • Secondary hyperhidrosis: resulting from medical conditions such as hyperthyroidism, diabetes, infections, or as a side effect of certain medications.
  • Emotional factors: stress, anxiety or intense emotions can increase sweat production.

In the event of hyperhidrosis, it is advisable to consult :

  • A dermatologist or general practitioner.
  • An endocrinologist: if underlying hormonal disorders are suspected.

Hyperhidrosis can sometimes diminish or disappear over time, especially if it is linked to temporary factors such as stress or hormonal changes. However, for many people, hyperhidrosis is a chronic condition.

Deficiencies in certain nutrients can affect perspiration.

  • Magnesium deficiency: magnesium plays a role in regulating body temperature, and a deficiency can cause excessive sweating.
  • B group vitamin deficiency: these vitamins are important for stress management and energy metabolism. A deficiency can increase sweating.

Hyperhidrosis is diagnosed by :

  • Medical history: the doctor will ask questions about your medical history and symptoms.
  • Physical examination: to check the areas affected by excessive sweating.
  • Specific tests: such as the iodine-starch test (which colours areas of excessive perspiration) or the blotting paper test (to measure the amount of sweat produced).
  • Sometimes a blood test: to rule out underlying conditions such as thyroid disorders or hormonal imbalances.

Certain pathologies can cause excessive sweating: hyperthyroidism, diabetes, infections, cancer, endocrine pathologies.

Homeopathic remedies such as Silicea, Calcarea carbonica and Natrum muriaticum can be beneficial.

Sage is a plant commonly used to reduce excessive perspiration.

Il existe plusieurs traitements pour la transpiration excessive : les antisudorifiques, les injections de Botox, l’iontophorèse, les médicaments anticholinergique ou la chirurgie. Le choix du traitement dépend de la gravité des symptômes et de la localisation de l’hyperhidrose.  

Oui, certains remèdes naturels peuvent aider à réduire la transpiration excessive, comme l’utilisation de thé de sauge, de vinaigre de cidre ou l’application de bicarbonate de soude. Une alimentation équilibrée et une bonne hydratation peuvent également contribuer à réduire la transpiration.

Les déodorants contenant du chlorure d’aluminium sont considérés comme les plus efficaces contre l’hyperhidrose. Ils bloquent temporairement l’activité des glandes sudoripares et réduisent ainsi la production de sueur.

To manage excessive perspiration on a daily basis, wear breathable clothing, apply effective antiperspirants, maintain good hygiene and avoid spicy or stimulating foods. In the event of serious discomfort, consult a health professional for appropriate treatment.

La transpiration excessive peut être due à l’hyperhidrose primaire (sans cause identifiable) ou secondaire (liée à une condition médicale, hormonale ou à certains médicaments).

Les crèmes contenant du chlorure d’aluminium hexahydraté sont souvent recommandées pour traiter l’hyperhidrose légère à modérée. Elles réduisent la production de sueur en obstruant temporairement les canaux des glandes sudoripares. Consultez un dermatologue pour choisir le produit le plus adapté.

As we age, the sweat glands may become more active due to hormonal changes or certain medical conditions. The body may also find it more difficult to regulate its temperature.

La transpiration fait perdre de l’eau, mais pas de la graisse. Pour perdre du poids, il est nécessaire de brûler des calories à travers l’exercice et une alimentation équilibrée.

Les anticholinergiques, tels que l’oxybutynine, sont parfois prescrits pour réduire la transpiration excessive. Ils agissent en bloquant les signaux nerveux qui stimulent les glandes sudoripares.

Sweat is the liquid produced by the sweat glands, while perspiration is the process by which the body releases sweat to regulate its temperature and eliminate certain toxins.

La transpiration est régulée par l’hypothalamus, une partie du cerveau qui contrôle la température corporelle. Il envoie des signaux aux glandes sudoripares pour activer ou réduire la production de sueur selon les besoins du corps.

Les aliments épicés, riches en caféine, ou contenant de l’alcool peuvent augmenter la transpiration en stimulant le système nerveux et en augmentant la température corporelle.

Boire de l’eau aide à réguler la température corporelle, mais ne cause pas directement une augmentation de la transpiration. Cependant, une surconsommation d’eau dans un climat chaud peut provoquer une sudation accrue pour refroidir le corps.

Le bicarbonate de soude est considéré comme un excellent anti-transpirant naturel. Il absorbe l’humidité et neutralise les odeurs. La pierre d’alun, un minéral naturel, est également efficace.

Excessive Sweating Appointment Geneva – Hyperhidrosis Consultation Geneva

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