Can Botox be used to treat Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)?
A. Botox injections have proven to be very useful in diminishing excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis). Hyperhidrosis is a common and extremely distressing condition with a prevalence of 2.8% of the population. For those affected, the condition is debilitating with serious impairment in activities of daily living, social interaction, and occupational activities. It is divided into primary or idiopathic hyperhidrosis which is usually focal and limited to axilla, palms, soles and face, and secondary hyperhidrosis which can be local or generalized affecting the entire body. Secondary hyperhidrosis is due to a variety of causes including underlying medical conditions, drugs, or exaggerated physiological responses to heat, humidity, or exercise. Diagnosis The most common type is primary idiopathic hyperhidrosis; however, it is critical to be aware of the secondary causes when evaluating a patient with excessive sweating. Primary hyperhidrosis is defined as focal visible excessive sweating or a
