What is Hyperhidrosis?

Living with Hyperhidrosis can be challenging. Hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating, Excessive sweating is common and can affect the whole body or certain areas such as the palms, soles of the feet, underarms, and face. Sometimes it gets better with age but there are things you can do and treatments that can help.

It’s normal to sweat if you get hot or do exercise. But you may be sweating excessively if you’re sweating when your body does not need to cool down.

Excessive sweating can happen for no clear reason. It could be because of another condition you may have or as a side effect of a medicine you’re taking.

Living with hyperhidrosis can present challenges, but there are ways to cope and improve quality of life. Simple lifestyle adjustments such as wearing breathable clothing, avoiding triggers that exacerbate sweating, and practicing stress-reducing techniques like mindfulness or meditation can make a significant difference.

The relationship between sun exposure and moles is complex and has so many layers. While some moles may develop as a direct result of UV exposure, others may darken or become more pronounced when exposed to sunlight. This phenomenon is known as solar lentigines or sun-induced hyperpigmentation. This means where existing moles or areas of pigmentation on the skin may darken or enlarge with sun exposure.

It’s important to note that not all moles are caused by sun exposure, and the presence of moles alone does not necessarily indicate an increased risk of skin cancer. However, excessive sun exposure, especially during childhood and adolescence, can contribute to the development of atypical or dysplastic moles, which may have irregular borders, uneven coloration, and a larger size than typical moles.

It’s important to note that not all moles are caused by sun exposure, and the presence of moles alone does not necessarily indicate an increased risk of skin cancer. However, excessive sun exposure, especially during childhood and adolescence, can contribute to the development of atypical or dysplastic moles, which may have irregular borders, uneven coloration, and a larger size than typical moles.

These types of moles are considered to be a risk factor for melanoma, the most deadly form of skin cancer.

To reduce the risk of developing moles and minimize the potential for sun-induced changes in existing moles, it’s so important to practice sun protection measures. This includes:

  1. Using sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 30 or higher to all exposed skin, including areas with moles, and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
  2. Seeking shade: Limit direct sun exposure during peak sunlight hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Seek shade whenever possible, especially if you have fair skin or a history of sunburns.
  3. Wearing protective clothing: Cover up with lightweight, tightly woven clothing and wide-brimmed hats. Try to wear sunglasses that offer UV protection to shield the skin from harmful sun rays.
  4. Avoiding tanning beds: Artificial UV radiation from tanning beds can also increase the risk of developing moles and skin cancer, so it’s best to avoid them altogether.
  5. Performing regular skin checks: Keep an eye on any existing moles for changes in size, shape, color, or texture. Consult a dermatologist if you notice any suspicious changes or new moles that appear after the age of 30.

By practicing sun-safe behaviors and being vigilant about monitoring changes in moles, you can help protect your skin from sun damage and reduce the risk of developing potentially harmful skin lesions. If you have concerns about your moles or skin health, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from a dermatologist for personalized advice and evaluation.

What types of Hyperhidrosis exist?

  1. Primary (idiopathic) hyperhidrosis: This type typically affects specific areas of the body, such as the palms, soles, underarms, or face, and is not caused by another medical condition. The exact cause of primary hyperhidrosis is unknown, but it is believed to involve overactive sweat glands.
  2. Secondary hyperhidrosis: This type is caused by an underlying medical condition or as a side effect of medication. Conditions such as diabetes, menopause, hyperthyroidism, obesity, and certain infections can lead to secondary hyperhidrosis.

Can I do anything about it?

  • Try to wear loose-fitting clothes to minimize signs of sweating.
  • Wear socks that absorb moisture and change your socks at least twice a day if possible.
  • Leather shoes are best and try to wear different shoes day to day.
  • Don’t wear tight clothes or synthetic fabrics such as nylon.
  • Try not to wear enclosed boots or sports shoes that may cause your feet to sweat more.
  • Don’t do things that might make your sweating worse – for example, drinking alcohol or eating spicy food

How can Botulinum Toxin injections help my Hyperhidrosis?

Injections of botulinum toxin type A can temporarily block the nerves that stimulate sweat glands, reducing sweating in the treated area. This treatment is particularly effective for underarm sweating.

What other treatments are available?

  1. Topical treatments: Antiperspirants containing aluminum chloride are often the first line of treatment. These can help reduce sweating when applied to the affected areas.
  2. Oral medications: Certain medications such as anticholinergics may be prescribed to help reduce sweating, although they may have side effects and are not suitable for everyone.
  3. Iontophoresis: This involves passing a mild electrical current through water and into the skin. It is often used to treat excessive sweating of the hands and feet and can help reduce sweat gland activity.
  4. Surgery: In severe cases that do not respond to other treatments, surgery may be considered. Surgical options include sympathectomy, which involves cutting or clamping the nerves that control sweating, or sweat gland removal.

Can Botulinum Toxin injections work for other ailments?

Here in Refine Clinic, we are able to treat not only Hyperhidrosis, with these injections, but the likes of Bruxism and Migraines.

Bruxism is a medical term that refers to the involuntary grinding, clenching, or gnashing of teeth. This condition can occur during the day, but it often happens at night during sleep, known as sleep bruxism. Many people may grind or clench their teeth occasionally without experiencing any negative effects, but persistent or severe bruxism can lead to various dental and health problems.

You may be surprised to know that Anti-Wrinkle Injections are the perfect treatment for “Bruxism”. The injections temporarily relax the muscles responsible for moving your jaw, reducing clenching. Any headaches or tension may subside also.

Botulinum toxin has been increasingly used as a treatment option for chronic migraines, especially for those who haven’t found relief from other medications or treatments. Chronic migraines are defined as experiencing headaches on 15 or more days per month, with at least eight days being migraines, for at least three months.

Multiple injections are administered into specific muscles of the head and neck. They work by blocking the release of certain chemicals involved in the transmission of pain signals, thereby reducing the frequency and severity of migraines.

Science shows that the release of neurotransmitters involved in pain signaling, such as substance P and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) are inhibited by the Botulinum Toxin injections. This in turn, calms hyperactive nerves and reduces inflammation in the brain.

If you would like more information or would like to book a consultation with Dr. Natalia, get in touch with us.

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Call 01-5645926

Email info@refineclinic.ie

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