When the sweat is pouring - help from a medical specialist
When temperatures rise, the body reacts by sweating to cool itself down. This is a natural and sensible process. Some people, however, sweat excessively all year round; it literally drips from the armpits and hands and huge sweat patches form on blazers and jackets that cannot be hidden. This often has serious consequences for those affected: They feel insecure and inhibited, because sweat is usually equated with a lack of personal hygiene.
So-called hyperhidrosis affects 1 to 2 percent of people in Germany. "This excessive sweating can be treated surgically by surgically removing the sweat glands in the armpit," explains Prof. Magnus Noah, who has been relieving those affected of their suffering, which is so embarrassing for them, for many years.
Under local anaesthetic, a small incision is made in the armpit and a specially designed suction cannula is inserted into the zone of sweat gland accumulation. The sweat glands are softened with tumescent fluid and then removed. Only the affected area below the skin is treated in order to spare the tissue and nerves in the armpit. The procedure only takes half an hour. The result: In 80 percent of the patients treated, sweating is significantly reduced after this operation.
Alternatively, the armpits can also be temporarily "dried out" with botulinum, the active ingredient known from wrinkle treatment. This method is also suitable if palms or feet are affected by hyperhidrosis. The active ingredient acts on the nerves that are responsible for sweating. This effectively stops the formation of sweat. Since the palms of the hands and soles of the feet are very sensitive to pain, Prof. Noah performs the injections under local anaesthesia to make the treatment as comfortable as possible for the patient. The effect takes effect after three to six days and lasts four to six months. After that, the active ingredient has broken down and follow-up treatment is needed. "Some patients are treated with botulinum especially in the summer months against their excessive perspiration in order to be able to enjoy the most beautiful season in a relaxed way," Prof. Noah explains the motivation of his patients.
