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Botox Can Save Your Social Life
By Suzy Cohen 1/2/03
QUESTION: I have the most bizarre problem ever. I sweat from
my armpits all the time -- nonstop and for no apparent reason.
Obviously, I have no social life. I tried those electrodes once,
but they hurt. Please help me.
--D.E., Fort Collins, Colo.
ANSWER: The disorder you describe is scientifically known as axillary
hyperhidrosis. There are other types of excessive sweating, such
as the pathological condition, which causes people to sweat at
the mere taste of food. This disorder is known as Frey's syndrome.
Iontophoresis, a treatment using electrodes and wet sponges,
is available for people who suffer with these challenging disorders,
but as you've experienced, the stinging sensation hurts, and the
effect is short-lived.
Aluminum chloride and prescribed drugs such as such as beta-blockers
and anticholinergic agents either don't work or confer more side
effects than they do relief. But there's another option that could
improve your quality of life. It's called Botox.
Most people have heard of botulinum toxin, or Botox for short.
It's all the rage in Hollywood as an anti-wrinkle treatment. But
what people don't realize is that this substance -- an otherwise
extremely potent poison -- can be a powerful antidote to sweaty
armpits. And insurance usually pays for it.
A study published by the New England Journal of Medicine showed
excellent results. More studies show that botox help migraines, but I'll
save that discussion for another day.
Botox shots are fast, easy and virtually risk free. A few injections
into the armpits, and that's it for months. The discomfort of
armpit injections can be eased if your doctor rubs a local anesthetic
(Emla cream) on the area 45 minutes before the shots are given.
Don't use Botox if you are pregnant or nursing. Side effects
are temporary and include soreness or itching at the injection
site and, in rare cases, a headache. A small price to pay. You'll
be out having fun in no time, with no more embarrassing explanations.
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