Axillary Hyperhidrosis: Understanding Excessive Underarm Sweating
Axillary Hyperhidrosis, the medical term for excessive underarm sweating, affects approximately 1% of the population. This condition is characterised by excessive and uncontrollable sweating in the armpits, often resistant to regular deodorants and over-the-counter treatments. For those affected, the constant dripping of sweat can interfere with daily life, creating discomfort and even leading to social anxiety or depression.
Why Do We Sweat?
Sweating is essential for regulating the body’s core temperature. The human body has approximately 4 million sweat glands, with higher concentrations in areas like the armpits, palms, and soles of the feet. Sweating is triggered by both thermoregulatory and emotional factors. However, in cases of hyperhidrosis, the body produces more sweat than necessary, particularly in the underarm area.
Causes and Triggers of Axillary Hyperhidrosis
Axillary Hyperhidrosis is caused by overactivity of the sweat glands, which can be triggered by several factors, including:
Exercise
Extreme temperatures (hot or cold)
Certain foods and beverages (e.g., alcohol, coffee, spicy food)
Smoking
Stress and emotional triggers (e.g., anxiety, strong emotions)
Time of day (certain hours may intensify sweating)
Although it can occur at any time, axillary hyperhidrosis typically starts in adolescence and is often linked to a genetic component. In fact, 30-50% of patients have a family history of the condition. The social and functional impact of this excessive sweating can significantly affect a person's quality of life.
Primary vs. Secondary Hyperhidrosis
There are two types of hyperhidrosis:
Primary Hyperhidrosis: This occurs without any underlying medical condition and is typically localised to specific areas such as the underarms.
Secondary Hyperhidrosis: This is usually a symptom of an underlying health issue and often involves generalised sweating.
If a patient experiences excessive underarm sweating for at least six months and it meets two or more of the following criteria, it is likely primary hyperhidrosis:
Effective Botox Treatment for Axillary Hyperhidrosis
At Skin Renewal, our highly experienced doctors offer Botox as a proven, effective treatment for axillary hyperhidrosis. Botox works by blocking the nerve signals responsible for activating the sweat glands. The procedure is quick and minimally invasive.
The Skin Renewal Doctor-Led Approach & Combination Treatments
At Skin Renewal, we pride ourselves on a doctor-led approach that ensures every patient receives a customised treatment plan. Our medical team considers the unique factors contributing to your hyperhidrosis, ensuring that Botox injections are administered safely and effectively. For comprehensive results, Botox can also be combined with other non-invasive treatments to manage excessive sweating in other areas, such as the palms, soles, and face. We aim to provide a holistic solution that addresses your needs, helping you regain control and confidence.
Additional Areas Treated with Botox
In addition to underarm sweating, Botox can be effectively used to treat:
By offering various targeted treatment options, we help you manage excessive sweating and improve your overall quality of life.
