Hyperhydrosis
Millions of people suffer with hyperhydrosis but, because of a widespread lack of awareness, more than half of them are never diagnosed or treated for their symptoms. Dr. Goldfarb has been specially trained as a certified injector of Botox to treat patients with Hyperhydrosis. He has effectively treated 25 patients with no complications.
Understanding Hyperhidrosis
(Excess Sweating):
Hyperhidrosis is a disease characterized by perspiration in excess of the physiologic amount necessary to maintain thermal homeostasis.
Primary or idiopathic hyperhidrosis and secondary hyperhidrosis are the two main categories. Patients can have excessive sweating either in a localized area (focal) or over the entire body (generalized). Primary disease is usually focal, affecting the soles, palms, and axillae in various combinations and with varying degrees of severity.
Secondary hyperhidrosis can be generalized or focal. In secondary hyperhidrosis the symptoms are due to one of a large number of medical conditions, including endocrine disorders, neurological problems, use of certain drugs, cancer, chronic infections, dermatologic syndromes, and conditions associated with excess catecholamine discharge. Occasionally hyperhidrosis can be seen on the head and face as a primary disorder or become apparent as gustatory sweating secondary to parotid surgery or diabetes.
Overview
Treatment options available to patients with primary hyperhidrosis can be categorized as non-surgical (topical antiperspirants, iontophoresis, systemic medication) or surgical (endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy, excision of axillary tissue). Botulinum toxin (BOTOX) injection, which can be said to be "minimally invasive," has become a therapy for patients who fail to respond to more-conservative treatment prior to resorting to surgery. The therapeutic alternatives also differ by duration of efficacy, side effects, and response rate in the various anatomic areas treated.
Insurance Coverage
Check with you health insurance carrier, your doctor, and your human resources department to see if your health-care plan covers hyperhydrosis treatment. You can find help and a wealth of information about insurance and reimbursement issues by visiting the website, www.SweatHelp.org
