If you are embarrassed by sweaty armpits, you’re not alone. The good news is that injections of BOTOX® into the underarm area could stop the sweat mechanism for months at a time.
Hyperhidrosis is a condition also known as excessive sweating and it is estimated to affect 1-3% of the UK population. Yet experts belief that there are many more who sweat more than normal and struggle with embarrassing wet patches on clothing.
Why we sweat
Sweating is entirely natural and normal. It is a process designed to keep the body cool.
It’s estimated that human bodies lose around a litre of sweat each day. However, many people sweat more than that.
Sufferers of excessive sweating (also known as hyperhidrosis) can lose 4-5 litres of sweat daily.
Why is it a problem?
When a person sweats at a high rate, the moisture can’t gently evaporate, so instead the sweat is likely to accumulate on clothing, leading to visible ‘wet patches’ under the armpit.
This causes a number of problems. The first is the overwhelming sense of embarrassment – patients very often feel self-conscious and embarrassed about the sweating, as they are aware that it will be noticeable to others. They worry about what people will think about the damp patches or whether they have started to give off any unpleasant body odours. It can even lead to social isolation as they keep to themselves, avoiding socialising.
It can also be uncomfortable and lead to chafing.
As sweat dries on clothing or on the skin, it can then develop an unpleasant odour as well.
It is important to remember that this is not just about personal hygiene. Sufferers of hyperhidrosis can use large amounts of antiperspirant yet it is not strong enough to stem the problem.
Hyperhidrosis injections
Sweat reduction injections are an excellent choice and help many men and women.
The procedure involves a series of 15-20 injections of botulinum toxin (i.e. BOTOX®) into the underarm area. This works to block the signals from the brain to the sweat glands and effectively stops the sweating process for months at a time.
The results develop within a few days and usually last for several months. When the injections start to wear off, treatment can be repeated if necessary.
The treatment is medically proven and has been popular with many in the public eye who rely on BOTOX® injections to avoid being seen with sweat marks.
Sweating Treatment Northampton
Mulberry House Clinic offer sweat reduction injections for the underarms with excellent success rates. Dr John Tanqueray at Mulberry House Clinic in Hardingstone is a highly experienced former GP who has treated many patients for excess sweating.
A consultation will include a full understanding of the condition and the practical problems the patient is experiencing. As a GP, Dr Tanqueray will also explore any potential underlying conditions.
If appropriate, injections can be carried out at the clinic and should give several months relief.
Other excessive sweating treatments
Before trying underarm injections, patients usually try a few different routes first.
DIY tips for hyperhidrosis
Practical solutions for the problem include:
- Use a strong antiperspirant which has ingredients to reduce sweating (deodorant is only designed to mask smells). Extra strong antiperspirants have higher concentrations of active ingredients
- Apply antiperspirant at night when sweat production is lower and the product won’t just ‘wash off’. You can always reapply in the morning although it won’t all wash off in the shower. Reapplying in the afternoon can also be helpful or before a stressful meeting
- Choose loose, light clothing made of cotton (synthetic fibres tend to be warmer to wear). Don’t be afraid to carry spares
- Avoid spicy foods and caffeine, which can stimulate the sweat glands. Garlic and onions can make the sweat smellier too
- If stress is a factor, then consider how you might work on this
- Maintain an active lifestyle and a healthy weight through good diet and exercise
- Don’t restrict hydration, drink plenty of water
Medical treatments for hyperhidrosis
Doctors can prescribe stronger anti-perspirant products, although many patients find that these cause intense skin irritation and still don’t give enough relief from the sweating problem.
GPs can also prescribe anticholinergic or antimuscarinic medication, which works by blocking the effects of acetylcholine, which the nervous system uses to activate the sweat glands. However, side effects can be unpleasant.
Iontophoresis is a treatment that may help reduce excess sweating on the hands or feet. It involves a weak electric current passed through water or a wet pad to help block the sweat glands.
Surgery is an extreme solution and there can be complications such as the sweat migrating to another part of the body.
If sweating is related to anxiety then CBT may be offered.
Botulinum toxin injections for excessive sweating are sometimes available on the NHS, but availability can vary widely and many patients turn to the private sector for treatment instead.
For more advice visit https://hyperhidrosisuk.org/
Mulberry House Clinic
Established 2003
Mulberry House Clinic has an excellent reputation in the Northampton area as an independent, doctor-led practice with vast experience of the industry. Cosmetic skin treatments are carried out by Dr John Tanqueray, who works closely with leading manufacturers to remain at the forefront of the medical aesthetics.
A private consultation is the starting point for all patients in order to facilitate a full discussion about the desired results as well as detailed facial and skin assessment. Find out more about first consultation.
For further information or to arrange a confidential consultation, please complete our contact form, call 01604 702630 or email: info@mulberryhouseclinic.co.uk.
