Treatment for hyperhidrosis

The term 'Hyperhidrosis' refers to chronic sweating in amounts greater than what the body needs and, understandably, this can have a severe impact on a person’s self-confidence and their professional and social relationships. Patients usually have excessive sweating of the palms, underarms (axillae) or soles of the feet.

Those with hyperhidrosis of the hands can have loss of confidence with common activities, such as shaking another person’s hand or signing documents. Hyperhidrosis of the axillae can have a devastating effect on self-esteem, causing people to avoid certain social interactions, or even modifying their behaviour for fear of appearing socially unacceptable.

Treatment for hyperhidrosis can involve something as simple as antiperspirant deodorants as first line therapy. Botulinum toxin injection to the affected area is often recommended as second line therapy. It reduces sweating temporarily by blocking the neuronal release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. A response to treatment with botulinum toxin is usually seen within 2-4 days and an improvement in sweating can last 3-9 months or longer, with significant individual variation.

At Sydney Cognitive our Neurologists are experienced in the treatment of hyperhidrosis. Call us today to discuss an appointment.