| What is Hyperhidrosis? |
Hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating is a major problem to many people. Excessive sweating is not a topic often discussed; even with our nearest and dearest. Sufferers mainly try to hide it, as profuse sweating is often associated with an unpleasant odour. In fact an odour only occurs when the sweat remains on the skin for a long time and therein forms a breeding ground for bacteria.
Focal hyperhidrosis is the term given to sweating in specific areas of the body, such as the hands and/or armpits.
Secondary hyperhidrosis is caused by another underlying condition (e.g. endocrine disorders, menopause, obesity, nerve damage, and rarely, some types of drugs)
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How does this treatment work?
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Muscle relaxants have been found to be effective in the management of excess sweating. The chemical that is released by nerve endings to stimulate muscle contraction, acetylcholine, is the same chemical that causes sweat glands to produce sweat.
Muscle relaxants work, in both cases, by preventing the release of this chemical from nerve endings, thereby blocking muscle contraction (when injected in the area of facial muscles) and blocking excessive sweat production (when injected into the skin of the underarms or palms).
The injection is done with a very fine needle and, for treatment of the underarms, face and head; anaesthesia is often not required as the procedure is virtually painless. For treatment of the hands and feet, local anesthesia is used to avoid injection discomfort.
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How long does the treatment last?
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The treatment on average lasts about six months. 

Many patients come in for treatment on a regular basis, usually about twice a year, so that this frustrating problem is almost completely eliminated from their lives. Others come in advance of important social engagements, such as weddings and reunions, and before important public appearances.
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