You are not alone…It is estimated that approximately 3% of the US population suffers from this condition. Hyperhidrosis seems to have a genetic predisposition, given that approximately 50% of those afflicted have one or more family members that suffer from the same problem.
Unfortunately, the cause of primary hyperhidrosis is not known. But, several hypotheses exist surrounding possible causes and triggers:
- Genetic predisposition
- Situations leading to sympathetic overdrive, like nervousness or excitement.
- Spicy foods or preparations that include certain spices such as garlic, cinnamon and cumin.
- Certain smells
- Caffeine or nicotine containing products.
- Medical conditions such as problems of the thyroid, pituitary or diabetes
- Medications
Areas affected depend on the number of sweat glands present. Some of the most common areas involved include the armpits, hands, feet and the groin.
Fortunately there are multiple treatment options for hyperhidrosis. These include:
Medications:
- Aluminum Chloride deodorants, creams, gels and lotions. These products can be applied to the armpits, palms of the hands and soles of the feet. Results are generally noted after about a week of use. Most common side effects of these medications include skin irritation, burning, itching and rash.
- Ditropan (Oxybutinin) and Robinul (Glycopyrrolate). These medications have been used as “off label” for the treatment of hyperhidrosis. They reduce the amount of sweating by blocking the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Side effects of these medications can include dry eyes and mouth, drowsiness, hot/dry skin, stomach pain, pain with urination and decreased urination.
- Botox & Dysport (botulinum toxin A). These medications have been approved by the FDA for the treatment of underarm hyperhidrosis. Multiple injections are performed in the armpit regions. Effects usually last about 4 months before the treatment needs to be repeated.
Surgical Procedures:
- Axillary Sweat gland ablation via laser using SmartLipo technology. This one time minimally invasive procedure uses the most advanced laser technology to deliver real quantitative results. Through a very small incision the SmartLipo laser is used to deliver focused energy to the specific targeted areas eliminating the problematic sweat glands. This is an outpatient procedure, performed under local anesthesia and takes approximately one hour. There is almost no downtime, though the areas treated may be sore for a day or two. 80-90% of patients report satisfactory results.
- Ultrasound assisted VASER® liposuction of the armpits. This treatment uses two principles, heat generation and mechanical destruction of the sweat glands. Small incisions are made in the armpit region. Local anesthesia is infused in to the surrounding tissues. Then using ultrasound technology the areas are treated. It is also an outpatient procedure, under local anesthesia and with minimal down time.
- Retrodermal Curettage. This procedure is also performed as an outpatient under local anesthesia and uses mechanical force to scrape away the sweat glands from the treated areas. The procedure is performed through a small incision under the armpit.
- Endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy and lumbar sympathectomy. These techniques, which cut along the nerve fibers that supply the sweat glands, are much more aggressive and a lot more invasive therefore could have the potential for more serious side effects.
At Imagen we offer the most technologically advanced, safe and effective treatments. Using SmartLipo Triplex technology we are able to reduce that embarrassing and bothersome sweating in your armpits.
As you explore various surgical and non-surgical options, obtaining an expert evaluation and customized treatment plan is recommended.
We invite you to schedule a complimentary consultation with Drs. Frank and Jennifer Soto at Imagen Body Sculpting and Cosmetic Center.
Call us at 402-509-8473 or contact us to get more information on the amazing results we can obtain for you with SmartLipo.
