Hyperhidrosis is a pathological form of sweating. The sweat glands secrete a disproportionate amount of sweat, which causes severe suffering for those affected. Even though sweating is a normal and even very important function of the body, sweat stains and the smell of sweat are perceived as extremely unpleasant and embarrassing. The treatment of hyperhidrosis in Berlin consists of various therapy options that are specially adapted to the individual patient. At our skin center in Weißensee, we offer gentle, non-surgical measures to combat extreme sweating.
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Reasons for excessive sweating
The causes of so-called primary hyperhidrosis cannot yet be clearly proven medically. A malfunction of the sympathetic nerve causes it to release large quantities of transmitters (including acetylcholine). These endogenous messenger substances in turn signal the sweat glands to become active, whereupon the secretion of sweat is stimulated. It is not yet known exactly why this misdirected information chain occurs. Doctors assume that a hormonal imbalance plays a role in this. Hereditary predisposition also appears to be involved.
A second form of excessive sweating is “secondary hyperhidrosis”. It occurs as a kind of secondary symptom of other illnesses, certain medications or as a result of hormonal changes (e.g. menopause).
Detailed advice and information for hyperhidrosis
When choosing the most suitable hyperhidrosis treatment, it is important to differentiate between primary and secondary hyperhidrosis. A precise medical history is therefore essential in order to recognize any other illnesses that cause excessive sweating at an early stage. In the case of primary hyperhidrosis, it is also important to inform the patient in detail about the condition and possible triggers. For example, stress and anxiety attacks can trigger an outbreak of hyperhidrosis. Through targeted exercises and behavior, patients can often have a positive influence on when and with what intensity sweating occurs.
Conservative treatment options
Relaxation exercises are a good start, but are often not enough to bring the sweating attacks under control. Treatment with antiperspirants or special creams can therefore also be used. These medical agents narrow the exit channel of the sweat glands so that less sweat can penetrate to the surface of the skin. They also counteract unpleasant odors and care for the skin.
Botulinum toxin as a remedy for heavy sweating
If antiperspirants do not have a satisfactory effect either, extreme sweating can be reduced with the help of medical botulinum toxin (Botox®). The neurotoxin prevents the transmission of information from the nerve to the corresponding sweat and odor glands. If these are no longer overactivated, sweat secretion is also regulated. When used correctly, Botox® offers a safe and effective solution to hyperhidrosis.
How does the Botox® treatment work?
In the Botox® treatment for severe sweating, a small amount of the active ingredient botulinum toxin – which is used in the treatment of wrinkles, among other things – is injected into the skin. wrinkle treatment is injected into the corresponding area. As the injection is carried out using a very fine needle, it is usually not even necessary to anesthetize the area to make the treatment painless. Immediately after the injection, patients can leave the practice and go about their daily lives.
The effect of the botulinum toxin sets in gradually and reaches its peak on around the tenth day. The body then breaks down the Botox® naturally until the muscle or sweat gland is fully functional again. The Botox® treatment can be repeated at regular intervals to achieve a lasting reduction in excessive sweating.
Further treatment options for hyperhidrosis
Severe sweating can also be treated surgically. Removing the sweat glands in the affected area provides a permanent solution to hyperhidrosis. In particularly severe cases, sweat gland surgery can improve the patient’s quality of life. However, it must also be borne in mind that surgical procedures are always associated with risks and possible negative side effects, including wound healing disorders, post-operative bleeding, intolerance to anesthesia, excessive scarring or sensory disturbances.
Non-surgical hyperhidrosis treatment in Berlin at the Weißensee Skin Center
At the Weißensee Skin Center, we treat patients with hyperhidrosis using non-surgical, gentle measures. A detailed consultation is an important basis for the success of the treatment, which is naturally very important to us. If you suffer from excessive sweating and would like professional and honest support from an expert, simply make an appointment with our practice team. Appointment for a no-obligation consultation. We will be happy to inform you about the possibilities of minimally invasive treatment for hyperhidrosis in Berlin.