Sweating is nature's way of cooling our bodies. But for some people, nature goes overboard, producing a sweating response that is anything but natural. Hyperhydrosis is excessive sweating which can occur even when the climate is comfortably cool and the person is at rest. This excessive sweating can be both uncomfortable and embarrassing. When prescription antiperspirants don't control excessive sweating, Botox injections in the underarms are a treatment option.
Facts
The bacteria Clostridium botulinum produces a toxin which causes botulism. When that toxin is purified, it can be used in a variety of medical applications. The botox toxin used for cosmetic purposes and for treatment of hyperhydrosis is Onabotulinumtoxin A, or Botox A. Commercially ,the product is known as Botox Cosmetic. Botox injections for hyperhydrosis may or may not be covered by your health insurance plan.
Function
When Botox A is injected into the skin of the underarms, it binds to the ends of the nerves that activate the sweat glands. The nerves are then unable to activate the sweat glands, and no sweat is produced. Botox A is sometimes used on other areas of the body affected by hyperhydrosis, such as the palms and soles of the feet.
Time Frame
Botox injections in the underarm take from several days to a few weeks to reach their full effect. Patients report that Botox relieves their excessive underarm sweating for a period lasting from six months to two years. When the effects of Botox wear off, you can receive underarm Botox injections again.
Preparation
Your doctor may order tests to determine exactly which of your underarm sweat glands are overactive. You may be asked to shave your underarms and avoid using deodorants or antiperspirants before the test. These tests typically involve placing cornstarch and iodine on the underarm and are noninvasive and not painful.
Considerations
Botox is administered in a number of injections, up to 50 per underarm. These injections are often described as painful, and a topical anesthetic or cold pack may be used to minimize discomfort. Botox may cause flu-like symptoms. Among the most serious side effects are difficulty breathing and swallowing, which may appear several weeks after the injections and can become life-threatening.
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