Excessive Sweating

FAQs

• How common is excessive sweating?

  About 0.5% of the population (or 1 in 200 people) have some form of hyperhidrosis.

• Does it affect men or women?

  Both men and women can suffer from excessive sweating.

• What age does it normally start?

  It usually starts between the teens and twenties.

• Which parts of the body are usually affected?

  Sweat glands are found virtually all over the body's surface but mainly in the armpits, on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet.

• What triggers excessive sweating?

  Hyperhidrosis can be triggered by the same things as normal sweating; it's just the volume of perspiration that varies. Examples include:

  1. Exercise
  2. Heat or cold
  3. Stress, anxiety or strong emotions
  4. Alcohol, tea or coffee, smoking, hot or spicy food

• What can I do about hyperhidrosis?

  Simple self-help measures include:

  1. Wear clothing that will keep you cool and keep a change of clothes handy.
  2. Keep your work environment cool and well aired.
  3. Avoid the food and drinks that trigger your excessive sweating
  4. Try to reduce stress, tension and anxiety, and make time to relax.
  5. Maintain high personal hygiene, such as frequent showers.

• Are there any treatments available?

  The most effective non-surgical treatment for excessive underarm sweating is a twice yearly Botox injection.

• How does Botox work?

  Botox virtually eliminates the sweating by blocking the nerve endings from sending messages to the sweat glands.

• Can I carry on as normal after treatment?

  You can return straight back to work but it is advisable to avoid any heavy exercise that day.

• When will the effects be noticeable?

  The excessive sweating will generally show signs of stopping three to five days after treatment.

• How long do the effects last?

  The benefits last for up to six months, sometimes longer.