According to the International Hyperhidrosis Society’s most current research, published in Archives of Dermatological Research, hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) is more prevalent, severe, and socially debilitating than previously thought. While researchers and physicians have always understood that those suffering from excessive sweat, dampness, and the associated odors struggled with limitations both at work and in social relationships, these issues may be even more troublesome than initially reported. Men and women who struggle year after year with unwanted underarm moisture, with no help from antiperspirants and deodorants, can find their emotional and mental health deeply impacted.
As part of the International Hyperhidrosis Society’s study, more than 8,000 people were asked to participate in an online survey, answering questions regarding their experiences with excessive sweating. The results show:
- 15.3 million Americans (4.8% of the U.S. population) live with severe, excessive sweating.
- 75% of these Americans report hyperhidrosis has had a negative impact on their social life, personal sense of well-being, and their emotional/mental health.
- 35% stated they sacrificed or avoided important events because of excessive sweating.
- 71% reported that hyperhidrosis caused increased anxiety
- Less than 49% have discussed their excessive sweating with a healthcare provider
According to Lisa j. Pieretti, Co-Founder and Executive Director of the International Hyperhidrosis Society, “People living with hyperhidrosis must not only live with its very visible symptoms but they also have to deal with the anxiety and social stigma associated with excessive sweating, which can be debilitating to their daily lives,”. More than just feeling a little sweaty, hyperhidrosis can be a crippling condition, leaving patients embarrassed and ashamed of the excessive moisture and odor, thus avoiding situations where their sweating can be notice by others. While hyperhidrosis is difficult for adults to handle, teens can also find themselves struggling with unrelenting sweating, as well.
Hyperhidrosis in Teens:
According the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), up to 17% (approximately one in five) of teens suffer from hyperhidrosis. These numbers are seven times higher than the statics have reported in the past. The 2017 International Hyperhidrosis Society survey included an online consumer panel of teens. More than 25% of these teens reported their onset of excessive sweating was before the age of 10, with the average age of hyperhidrosis is 13. Pieretti continues, “By helping to increase awareness of (hyperhidrosis), we hope we can inspire teens to bring their excessive sweating issues out into the open – and for medical professionals to provide more empathetic, effective management,”.
How Botox Can Help Hyperhidrosis
Botox, the magical wrinkle-reducing injectable, also has the power to put an end – at least temporarily – to excessive underarm sweat. In 2004, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) approved Botox for the treatment of severe primary axillary hyperhidrosis (excessive underarm sweat) for patients that found no relief through antiperspirants. Injected superficially under the skin, instead of deeper into the muscles as with a wrinkle treatment, Botox will block the chemical signals from targeted nerves that tell the sweat glands when to produce sweat. As there are thousands of sweat glands all around the body, there is no risk when ‘turning off’ your underarm sweat glands. The benefits of a hyperhidrosis Botox treatment will last for approximately three months, sometimes longer. After this time, a second session can safely be performed, continuing the results.
This Summer, Take Charge of Your Hyperhidrosis
To learn more about Mirror Mirror Beauty Boutiques solution to hyperhidrosis, Botox, call our Richmond Avenue office at (281) 407-9549. Speak to your patient coordinator to arrange a confidential hyperhidrosis consultation at Mirror Mirror Beauty Boutique, free of charge. At this time, we can help to determine if Botox Cosmetic can help put an end to your excessive sweating.
