Dr James Higgins, MBChB, MRCGP, DFRSH, DRCOG, DCH
Excessive sweating - "Hyperhidrosis"
Whilst sweating is a useful process to help regulate body temperature, some people are troubled by excessive sweat gland activity. Most commonly this affects the axilla (armpits), though can affect other areas also. This can cause significant distress and embarrassment, but need not go unmanaged.
There are 2 types of sweat glands in human skin - eccrine glands that produce the majority of watery sweat, and apocrine glands which produce body odour.
What causes hyperhidrosis?
Most commonly this issue is genetic, i.e. it runs in families, or else there is no identifiable cause. In some people, however, there may be a medical reason as to why it is happening. Dr. James will undertake a full medical history and assessment of your condition to ensure that nothing underlying is missed.
How does Botox reduce sweating?
Botox administered carefully into the skin blocks signals from the nerves that would usually stimulate the sweat glands to release sweat. The Botox specifically targets the eccrine sweat glands - ie the glands that produce most of the sweat which causes sweat patches. It does not target the apocrine glands which create smell, and thus ongoing use of deodorant would still be required after a procedure. Botox is very effective at reducing sweat volume, though will not stop sweat production altogether. You can expect a noticeable improvement in your sweating after around 7 days. Results tend to last for up to 6 months.
What do I need to do to prepare for my appointment?
In order to treat the correct area, Dr. James needs to be able to see the hair follicles in the armpits being treated. We request that you shave the area the day before your treatment to enable this. On the day of your appointment, you should wear a sleeveless top or vest.