Botox For Excessive Sweating

There are a whole lot of people taking advantage of the multitude cosmetic benefits of Botox. Fine lines and wrinkles are easily neutralized and eliminated by this treatment. In fact this is why it has become the number one cosmetic procedure in America. There are however many other uses for this seeming miracle drug. One area where it is used for both cosmetic and medical reasons is in the treatment of excessive sweating.

Excessive sweating, technically referred to as hyperhidrosis, is a condition in which the body sweats more than is necessary for temperature regulation. Many of us experience this in small part in situations where we are nervous or excited. This is why many people with high-pressure jobs and celebrities have Botox injections to reduce their impact on their clothing. Unfortunately, there are many people who live their whole lives perspiring excessively on their hands, feet, and armpits.

With excess perspiration comes a myriad of problems. People with hyperhidrosis often report experiencing intense embarrassment and anxiety at the thought of having to be in public. They also experience shame and feel self conscious about situations where they may need to be in close proximity to other people or shake their hands. Often the extra sweat leads to increased body odor that makes it difficult to work in small spaces like offices and to take public transportation. The paradox is that many people have anxiety about sweating and then sweat from anxiety. Fortunately there is a viable option in Botox treatments.

Botox is derived from a highly dangerous neurotoxin called botulinum. Most people are familiar with it as the poisonous bacteria in bad canned tomatoes. By diluting and refining this down to a miniscule level it is possible to use it as a paralyzing agent in the small muscles of the face. This is what makes it such a successful cosmetic drug. This same ability is used to great effect on the sweat glands. By paralyzing the nerves in the trouble areas it is possible to reduce the release of sweat. Usually this is only done in areas that are prone to embarrassing perspiration. It is important to note that it is not only unsafe but also possibly deadly to prevent all parts of the body from sweating. It is necessary to leave the body some outlet for perspiration.

Botox injections usually take effect within 48 hours of administration. With the reduction in moisture there will be an immediate reduction in foul bacteria that cause body odor. The procedure is relatively side effect free and can be repeated as needed. Most people report the effects lasting for between four months and a year. As with any medication it is critical that nobody undergo this procedure without first consulting with a physician and after that only receiving it from a physician. Only they will be able to safely administer the injection and have the medical knowledge in case something goes wrong.