Sweating is an important and normal way for the body to regulate temperature.

Hyperhidrosis describes sweating that occurs in excess of the body's normal requirements. When it predominantly affects the underarms without another underlying cause, it is known as primary axillary hyperhidrosis.

For some people this can affect:

• Clothing choices 
• Work and social situations 
• Exercise and everyday activities 
• Confidence and quality of life 

Before recommending treatment, it is important to consider whether the sweating is likely to represent primary hyperhidrosis or could be related to another medical condition or medication.

Dr Jackie will discuss:

• How long you have experienced excessive sweating 
• The areas affected 
• How significantly it affects your everyday life 
• Your general health and medical history 
• Current medications 
• Previous treatments or antiperspirants you have tried 
• Whether there are any features suggesting an underlying cause 

If your history suggests that the sweating could be secondary to another condition, further medical assessment may be more appropriate than simply treating the sweating itself.

Following assessment, Dr Jackie will discuss the treatment options available and whether prescription treatment is appropriate for you.

Where clinically appropriate following consultation, botulinum toxin type A may be considered as a treatment option for primary axillary hyperhidrosis.

It works by temporarily reducing the chemical signalling between nerves and the sweat glands in the treated area. Treatment involves multiple small injections placed superficially across the affected area of each underarm. The medicine is prescription-only and will only be prescribed following an appropriate medical assessment.

Assessment
Dr Jackie will confirm whether your symptoms are consistent with primary axillary hyperhidrosis and whether treatment is appropriate.

Treatment
A series of small superficial injections are placed across each underarm. Treatment usually takes around 20–30 minutes.

Results
Improvement generally begins during the first week following treatment. 

Duration
The effect is temporary. Clinical information for the licensed product states that improvement typically persists for approximately 4–7 months, although individual response varies. Further treatment can be considered once the effect has diminished and where clinically appropriate. 

The aim is to significantly reduce excessive underarm sweating, rather than promise complete dryness. Individual response varies, and no treatment can guarantee complete elimination of sweating. Importantly, treating the underarms does not prevent your body from regulating its temperature through sweating elsewhere.

 • Doctor-led assessment

 • Appropriate prescribing

 • Discreet treatment

 • Individual follow-up

Excessive sweating isn't simply a cosmetic concern. Dr Jackie will first assess whether your symptoms are consistent with primary hyperhidrosis and whether there is anything in your history that requires further investigation before treatment is considered. Where prescription treatment is appropriate, the expected benefits, limitations and potential risks will be discussed before you decide whether to proceed.