HYPERHIDROSIS (EXCESS PERSPIRATION)
Serving Hamilton, Stoney Creek, Grimsby and surrounding areas.
The Facts about Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, is a condition that affects millions of people around the world. Uncontrolled sweating can occur in various parts of the body including the face, hands, feet or underarms. Although high temperatures or stress can increase perspiration, they don't cause hyperhidrosis. Instead, hyperhidrosis may be an inherited trait that stops the body from properly regulating its temperature. Until now, excessive sweating has been difficult to control. Finally, there is a long-lasting treatment for hyperhidrosis that works.
Botox® for Hyperhidrosis
Unlike topical treatments, Botox® targets sweating at its source. With a few tiny injections, Botox® enters the specific glands in the underarms responsible for excessive sweating. There, it blocks the release of a chemical that signals the perspiration.
How effective is it?
Patients treated with Botox® notice a remarkable improvement in their symptoms. In clinical studies, 95% of patients with hyperhidrosis that was severe enough to interfere with their daily lives experienced the benefits of Botox® after just 1 week, with sweating reduced by an average of 83%.
How long does it Last?
After the first treatment, the effects of Botox® lasts an average of 8 months. For nearly 40% of patients, Botox® reduces sweating for more than one year. The amount of time Botox® remains effective may vary. When your symptoms return, it would be time for another Botox® treatment.
Is it Safe?
Yes. Botox® has been used to treat a range of medical conditions including eye muscle spasm and cerebral palsy for more than 10 years. Side effects if they occur are temporary. The most common side effects with Botox® for axillary hyperhidrosis were perceived increase in sweating in areas other than the underarms (4.5%), pain (1.7%) or hot flushes (1%). This is considered to be a very safe procedure with a very low incidence of side effects.
What areas can be treated?
Botox® injections are used to treat localized areas of sweating. They work the best for underarm sweating. Dr. Vignjevic does not use Botox Injections to treat hyperhidrosis of the palms, soles or scalp. Botox® CANNOT be used to treat sweating over the whole body (e.g. back, legs) or very large areas.
Will my drug plan pay for the treatment?
Several private drug plans will pay for the cost of the Botox® itself. The medication costs between $420.00 and $840.00, depending on how large an area is being treated. There is also an additional cost to have the Botox injected. This is usually not covered. The cost is approximately $112.50 per underarm treated, plus GST. The government drug plan (e.g. Seniors, Social Assistance) does not cover either the cost of the Botox® or the cost of the injections for hyperhidrosis.
How long does the procedure take?
Approximately 15 to 30 minutes. You can bathe, shower, drive or go back to work immediately afterward.
Do I need a referral to make an appointment to see the doctor?
Yes. If you have not seen the doctor before, or if it has been more than one year since your last visit, you will require a referral from another doctor. If you have seen Dr. Vignjevic within the past 12 months, please phone the office directly to make an appointment.
How can I learn more about Hyperhidrosis?
If you would like to learn more:
- Please click on the underlined links above
- E-Mail Us
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CLICK HERE to watch a video clip in which Dr. V discusses Botox for Hyperhidrosis.
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Go to the Hyperhidrosis Website which will provide you with lots of information
- Or give us a call at 905-549-1025