What is Botox?
Botox is actually a toxin that is produced by a bacteria known as Clostridium botulinum. The toxin functions by blocking the function of nerves. When the toxin is spread througout the body, paralysis will occur. When the toxin is injected into a specific site, however, only the nerves in that area will be paralyzed.
Botox for Excessive Palm and Underarm Sweating
Botox can be used to treat palmar hyperhidrosis. Botox treatment is effective for many individuals with sweaty palms and other side effects of hyperhidrosis. A study of botox for the treatment of palmar hyperhidrosis was completed on 19 individuals, where botox was given in one arm, while the other arm did not receive botox. All patients rated the Botox treatment a success. (1) Botox is also effective in treating sweaty underarms, as shown in a recent study. (2) After four weeks, 75% of patients in the study noted a significant improvement in symptoms with Botox treatment.
Side Effects of Botox Treatment for Excessive Sweating
The main side effects of botox treatment include pain during the injection and the possiblity of weakness at the site of injection. Most patients find the hands and feet to be particularly painful during injection of botox. In addition, the botox treatment does not last indefinately, and has to be repeated. Temporary hand weakness was seen in 21% of patients in one study. (3)
You should speak with your physician to determine which treatment option is the best for you. If you are considering surgical treatment for hyperhidrosis, please contact us to schedule a consultation with one of our surgeons. Please visit our sections on surgical treatment for excessive sweating and results of surgery for excessive sweating for more information.
Useful Links :
Botox info from Wikipedia
Botox for Sweaty Palms from Medline Plus
1. Efficacy and Safety of Botulinum Toxin Type A in the Treatment of Palmar Hyperhidrosis
2. Botulinum toxin type A in the treatment of primary axillary hyperhidrosis
3. Botulinum toxin type A therapy for palmar and digital hyperhidrosis
About Newport Beach Hyperhidrosis Clinic
Newport Beach Hyperhidrosis Clinic is located in
Newport Beach, CA,
and serves the surrounding
Orange County area.
This site is intented to provide background information about hyperhidrosis and excessive sweating. It is thought to be accurate, but does not necessarily reflect the opinions of Dr.'s Raney, Zusman, or Joyo and is not meant to
replace an informed discussion with our surgeons.
To find out more about surgical treatment for hyperhidrosis, call 877-744-4486 to set up an appointment and discuss your condition with one of our physicians.
