Botulinum toxin seems an unlikely answer to excess sweat problems, but it is often used as a way to prevent hyperhidrosis. It is a good solution for excess underarm sweat in particular, and can be applied to sweat problems in small areas.
Botulinum toxin is more commonly perceived as a cosmetic procedure used to paralyse muscles on the face to preserve a youthful appearance. However, Botulinum toxin used in smaller doses can also be used as an effective site treatment for hyperhidrosis, preventing the nerves from accessing the sweat glands.
Botulinum toxin is injected to the site where sweating is a problem. The fluid helps to block the contact between the nerves and your sweat glands, preventing excess sweat for a period of time. Eventually the Botulinum toxin does wear off and would have to be re-injected in order for the process to continue. The treatment does have to be repeated about every four months in order for it to be a long-term answer to your hyperhidrosis problem.
Having Botulinum toxin injections to treat your hyperhidrosis will vary in price, dependant on how many sites you wish to have treated. Botulinum toxin can be used for up to 20 sites on your body at one time. As a rough guide, having your underarms treated will cost around £400, whereas other areas of your body can be anything from £150 upwards.
To get a quote or more information you can contact the clinic that you choose or ask your GP for advice.
Botulinum toxin for hyperhidrosis is sometimes available on the NHS; your GP will talk to you about your problem and is likely to refer you to a dermatologist in order for you to be treated. This is only available for primary hyperhidrosis, and you will have to have a full assessment and examination beforehand. It is an expensive process, so it is possible that you will have to wait for your treatment.
« Cost of Iontophoresis Surgery for Excessive Sweating or Hyperhidrosis »