Medical Conditions

Excessive sweating

What is considered excessive sweating?

Sweating is a normal physiologic function of the body to regulate the body temperature. For some people, sweating can be experienced as troublesome, for example when someone sweats a lot. This is called excessive sweating and may lead to unflattering sweat spots or wet hands and feet. The social impact of this condition can be huge. Some people will avoid social gatherings because of feelings of embarrassment and shame.

In the medical world, excessive sweating is also called hyperhidrosis. When a person has symptoms of hyperhidrosis, it is best to see the general practitioner first. This doctor can help determine whether or not there is a underlying cause for the problem, i.e. use of medication that stimulates sweat secretion, and can also help treat the condition.  

How can hyperhidrosis be treated?

There are multiple ways to treat excessive sweating. The general practitioner can prescribe ointments or tablets. Someone can also choose a treatment with botulinum toxin (botulinum toxin). This can be done at Beauty Centre Maastricht. We treat armpits, hands and feet. The botulinum toxin is injected into the skin causing the sweat glands to produce less sweat.

What to expect from a botulinum toxin treatment?

At Beauty Centre Maastricht, a consultation is done prior to every new treatment. The consultation is free of charge and without any obligation to do a treatment. We evaluate the symptoms and your medical history and decide whether or not a botulinum toxin treatment is a suitable option for you.

The sweat glands are in a very superficial layer in the skin. In each armpit/hand/foot approximately 20 injections are needed. The injections are done with a very thin needle to enhance comfort. However, the armpits, hands and feet are very sensitive areas. For that reason, some people do experience the treatment as painful. If needed, a numbing agent can be used prior to the treatment. This makes the pain a bit more bearable.

What to expect from a botulinum toxin treatment for excessive sweating?

The maximum effect of the botulinum toxin will be noticeable within 2 weeks after the inital treatment. The result lasts for 4 to 6 months. After this period, the botulinum toxin will wear of naturally. A new treatment may be performed if required.

One of the downsides of botulinum toxin for hyperhidrosis is that some people tend to sweat more in other places of the body after the treatment. This does not happen to everyone and it is not possible to predict who will and who will not compensate in other areas. There are also people who do not get a proper result from botulinum toxin. For these reasons, a first treatment with botulinum toxin for sweating is considered a trial treatment. Only after that first treatment we can assess whether or not botulinum toxin works for you.

 

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