Khoa, 28, used to suffer from excessive hand sweating since puberty, a condition that caused his hands to become heavily damp and wrinkled when stressed. Ten days after receiving a botox injection, his hand sweat reduced by more than 70%, significantly boosting his confidence in work and social interactions.

Doctor of First Degree Specialization Thach Thi Hoang Dung, from the Dermatology - Aesthetic Dermatology unit at Tam Anh District 7 General Clinic, diagnosed Khoa with primary palmar hyperhidrosis. This condition, characterized by overactive sweat glands, causes the body to secrete sweat excessively beyond its thermoregulation needs. It commonly affects areas with a high density of eccrine sweat glands, such as the palms, soles, armpits, and face.

The primary cause of hyperhidrosis is an overactive sympathetic nervous system, which stimulates sweat glands even without external heat or physical exertion. While stress is not the only cause, doctor Dung notes it acts as a significant trigger and aggravates the condition. Research indicates that stress can stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, leading to increased sweat secretion, particularly in the palms, soles, armpits, and face.

Doctors prescribed botulinum toxin (botox) injections for Khoa. This procedure temporarily inhibits nerve signals to the sweat glands, reducing sweat production in the treated area. It is quick, minimally invasive, and allows patients to resume normal activities immediately. The treatment’s effect peaks after 7-10 days and typically lasts 4-6 months, varying by individual. Booster injections can maintain results as the effect diminishes.

Doctor injecting botox to treat hand hyperhidrosis for Khoa. *Photo: Tam Anh District 7 General Clinic*

Primary hyperhidrosis often emerges during adolescence or young adulthood and tends to be a chronic condition, significantly impacting an individual’s psychology and social interactions. Many cases also show a family history. Doctor Dung highlighted that while various treatment options exist, including medication, iontophoresis, microwave technology, and sympathectomy, invasive surgical methods carry risks such as scarring, prolonged pain, or compensatory sweating in other areas. Therefore, doctors currently prioritize minimally invasive approaches.

Botox injection is a popular choice among these due to its rapid effectiveness and high safety when administered correctly. Additionally, microwave technology is also utilized to treat armpit hyperhidrosis, simultaneously improving both sweat volume and odor.

Patients experiencing excessive sweating should consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis of the cause and severity of their condition to ensure effective treatment.

Minh Huong

*Character’s name has been changed*