Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis is a condition that causes intense sweat production especially in certain areas of the body such as the armpits, palms and soles. People suffering from hyperhidrosis face problem in their social and professional life because of the incessant sweating.The treatment is done by injecting botulinum toxin (Botox-Dysport) into the sweat glands where the problem occurs with immediate reduction of symptoms. The treatment is very simple and the reduced sweating lasts for about 4-6 months. (Botox-Dysport) was discovered in the early 19th century and in the mid-20th century it was manufactured in a laboratory. Its application in medicine began in the 1970s in Ophthalmology and later in Neurology. In April 2002, it was approved by the F.D.A. (Food and Drug Administration of the United States) for use in the treatment of forehead and midface wrinkles. Since then, 10 million applications are made every year all over the world, with an increasing trend. Botox/Dysport treatment of course does not replace surgical procedures, but acts as a complement or improves the facial appearance in people who do not directly desire extensive plastic surgery.

Treatment

The use of the drug requires excellent knowledge of the anatomy of the muscles, the mode of action, dosage, indications and contraindications. Botulinum toxin “blocks” the release of a chemical substance from nerve cells (acetylcholine), which causes muscle contraction, and in this way muscle movement is impaired. The treatment is simple, short (about 10 minutes) and is carried out in the plastic surgeon’s office.