Hyperhidrosis: Medical Treatment for Excessive Sweating
Hyperhidrosis is a clinical condition characterized by excessive sweat production, surpassing the body's physiological need to regulate temperature. For patients, the impact goes far beyond aesthetics: it is a problem that generates profound discomfort, social isolation, limitations in clothing choices, and embarrassment in the workplace.
Understanding the Condition: Primary vs. Secondary
Excessive sweating can be divided into two main categories, which require careful medical evaluation during the consultation to define the correct treatment:
- Primary Focal Hyperhidrosis: The most common form. Usually of genetic origin, it manifests symmetrically in the armpits, palms of the hands, soles of the feet, or craniofacial region. It tends to worsen with emotional stimuli and stress.
- Secondary Hyperhidrosis: Occurs as a symptom of an underlying condition, such as thyroid disorders (hyperthyroidism), diabetes, menopause, the use of certain medications, or infections. In these cases, treatment requires correcting the base cause.
The Botulinum Toxin Treatment Revolution
Although there are clinical antiperspirants (based on aluminum chloride) and oral medications, Botulinum Toxin has established itself as the gold standard in dermatology for the control of focal hyperhidrosis (especially axillary and palmar) due to its efficacy and safety.
How does it work? The toxin is applied superficially to the skin of the affected region. It acts by blocking the release of acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter responsible for sending the signal to the sweat glands. Without this signal, the gland simply pauses sweat production.
- Procedure: Performed in the office, quick and tolerable (with the use of topical anesthetics or prior cooling).
- Onset of action: Sweat begins to decrease between 48 and 72 hours after application, reaching maximum results in about 15 days.
- Duration: The effect is temporary, lasting on average 6 to 9 months (and often up to 12 months in the axillary region), allowing the patient to spend the hottest seasons of the year with total comfort and dryness.