What is axillary hyperhidrosis?
Axillary hyperhidrosis, or excessive underarm sweating, is a common condition affecting up to 3% of the Australian population.
Most sufferers will notice the development of this condition in late childhood, pubertal change but some also notice the problem starting in their mid 20s and onwards. It may seem like a non issue for non sufferers but the effect and impact this condition has on daily activities is often underestimated. It can greatly affect both social and work situations leading to avoidance of many activities. Quite often, there is a family history present in up to 30% of cases.
The diagnosis is confirmed using a combination of patient history and physical examination if required.
The great news its that very effective treatments are available at Laser Skin Care with long lasting results. Bot Toxin A has been approved for treating moderate to severe cases in people. It is highly effective in up to 95% of cases. Even milder cases can also benefit greatly from this simple treatment.
Usually the full treatment takes about 10 to 15 minutes. The toxin is injected with very fine needles into the areas of excessive sweating. It typically controls sweating for around 4 to 7 months.
Side effects are exceedingly rare but include temporary pinpoint bleeding, bruising and redness in the injected sites. Individuals can resume normal activities after the procedure but exercise should be limited for 48 hours after treatment. Topical anaesthetic cream applied 1-1.5 hours beforehand will help reduce any discomfort but generally it is very well tolerated.
The results will take up to 2 weeks to see the full effect and patients report a very high rate of satisfaction and continuance of further treatments. The vast improvement in their sweating gives them the confidence to continue making the most of all situations.
If you would like more information on the treatment of excessive sweating or to book a complimentary consultation, please call our friendly team on (08) 9368 6888.
Dr. Jenny Tang