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.
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.
These symptoms vary in intensity and may be more or less bothersome depending on the individual.
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.
Factors that may trigger a ‘sweating crisis’ include :
Treatments for hyperhidrosis include :
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.
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 on the soles target foot hyperhidrosis by reducing sweat production in this often difficult-to-treat area. This treatment helps reduce discomfort and prevent fungal or bacterial infections related to excessive sweating.
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 are used to treat facial hyperhidrosis, particularly excessive sweating of the forehead. By relaxing the sweat glands, this treatment helps control sweat production and improves daily comfort for about 4 to 6 months.
Botulinum toxin injections on the face specifically target areas such as the forehead, cheeks and temples, where excessive sweating can be troublesome. They help reduce hyperhidrosis without affecting facial expression. However, diffusion is common, which may cause functional and aesthetic disturbances.
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.
Botox treatment, although generally safe and effective for reducing excessive sweating, has certain contraindications to consider. This treatment is not recommended in the following cases :
Treatment of hypersudation with Botox is recommended in several situations.
Botox treatment for hyperhidrosis is a simple and quick procedure performed in a medical office. The injection process takes about one minute.
Initial consultation
During the first visit, Doctor Romano evaluates the severity of the hyperhidrosis and discusses with the patient to ensure there are no contraindications and to assess the relevance of Botox injections.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The results of Botox injections for excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis, are quick.
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.
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.
Is Botox effective against excessive sweating ? Botox treatment for excessive sweating is well known for its effectiveness and fast results.
Unfortunately, there is no natural method to stop hyperhidrosis. However, certain habits can help improve daily comfort.
Hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, generally manifests as heavy, unpredictable sweating not related to ambient temperature or physical activity. People who suffer from it may notice sweat dripping from their skin or constantly damp clothes, even when at rest or under minimal stress. The most commonly affected areas are the underarms, palms of the hands, feet and face. If this excessive sweating interferes with your daily activities, causes social or emotional discomfort, or requires frequent clothing changes, you may be suffering from hyperhidrosis. A medical diagnosis is essential to assess the severity of the symptoms and identify any underlying causes.
It becomes necessary to see a doctor when excessive sweating significantly affects your quality of life or when unusual symptoms occur, such as excessive localized sweating, unexplained night sweats, unexplained weight loss, or sweating accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath or fever. A doctor will be able to determine whether the sweating is a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as an infection, hormonal disorder or other illness.
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.
In the event of hyperhidrosis, it is advisable to consult :
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.
Hyperhidrosis is diagnosed by :
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.
There are several treatments for excessive sweating: antiperspirants, Botox injections, iontophoresis, anticholinergic drugs or surgery. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms and the location of the hyperhidrosis.
Yes, some natural remedies can help reduce excessive sweating, such as using sage tea, cider vinegar or applying bicarbonate of soda. A balanced diet and good hydration can also help reduce sweating.
Deodorants containing aluminium chloride are considered to be the most effective against hyperhidrosis. They temporarily block the activity of the sweat glands, thereby reducing sweat production.
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.
Excessive sweating may be due to primary hyperhidrosis (with no identifiable cause) or secondary hyperhidrosis (linked to a medical condition, hormones or certain medications).
Creams containing aluminium chloride hexahydrate are often recommended to treat mild to moderate hyperhidrosis. They reduce the production of sweat by temporarily obstructing the ducts of the sweat glands. Consult a dermatologist to choose the most suitable product.
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.
Sweating makes you lose water, but not fat. To lose weight, you need to burn calories through exercise and a balanced diet.
Anticholinergics, such as oxybutynin, are sometimes prescribed to reduce excessive sweating. They work by blocking the nerve signals that stimulate the sweat glands.
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.
Sweating is regulated by the hypothalamus, a part of the brain that controls body temperature. It sends signals to the sweat glands to activate or reduce sweat production according to the body's needs.
Foods that are spicy, rich in caffeine or contain alcohol can increase sweating by stimulating the nervous system and raising body temperature.
Drinking water helps to regulate body temperature, but does not directly cause an increase in sweating. However, over-consumption of water in a hot climate can cause increased sweating to cool the body.
Baking soda is considered an excellent natural antiperspirant. It absorbs moisture and neutralises odours. Alum stone, a natural mineral, is also effective.
