Hyperhydrosis Treatment in Cambridge « Dr. Takhar's Cambridge Cosmetic Clinic & Spa

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Hyperhydrosis Treatment in Cambridge

What is Hyperhydrosis?

Excessive sweating is medically known as Hyperhydrosis. This condition affects approximately 3% of the population-some 950,000 Canadians! It is unfortunately a condition which has previously been largely disregarded as a natural body reaction and sufferers have been told to learn to live with it. But no more!

Dr. Takhar, has some words of advice for those who suffer from this embarrassing condition. "Fortunately there are new options available for treatment." Says Dr. Takhar who feels that no-one should have to endure the social, emotional and physical affects of this disorder.

What areas of the body are most often affected by Hyperhydrosis?
When sweating occurs in certain places only, it is known as focal Hyperhydrosis. Most often, focal Hyperhydrosis affects the palms, soles of the feet, underarm and face. Underarm sweating is by far the most common with over 50% of the reported cases. When sweating occurs over the entire body, it is known as generalized Hyperhydrosis, but this is less common.

What causes Hyperhydrosis?
In most cases, the cause of Hyperhydrosis is unknown. This is known as primary Hyperhydrosis. Hyperhydrosis can also be caused by an underlying condition (e.g. metabolic disorders, menopause, obesity, nerve damage), and by some drugs although this is very uncommon. This is known as secondary Hyperhydrosis.

Can Hyperhydrosis be treated?
There are several ways to treat focal hyperhydrosis. Traditionally doctors have used topical treatments (anti-perspirants) which work to a moderate degree. In very severe cases patients in the past have been referred to a surgeon for either removal of sweat glands or cutting of the nerves leading to the glands. Fortunately there is a new treatment for this disorder, Botox injections.

Dr. Takhar has been using this procedure for several years now and has had great success with it. "A few injections can change a person's life." She says. "Many people do not realize how debilitating this condition can be for sufferers. They have to be conscious of their sweating when they make decisions about daily activities. Sweating hands, armpits etc. can give the wrong impression in both personal and business situations". Dr. Takhar uses a simple technique which takes minutes to perform and the effects can last for over a year. The injections are done with a very fine needle and are virtually painless. Side effects are extremely rare and temporary. This treatment is safe, approved by Health Canada and covered by most insurance plans.

"Patients can not believe how such a simple procedure can relieve such a long standing problem." Says Dr. Takhar, who finds that most patients wish they had discovered this earlier. "Many of them have spent summers wearing sweaters to hide this problem". Dr. Takhar will see patients at no cost at her clinic for a consultation.

What are the current treatments for Hyperhydrosis?
The most common ways to treat Hyperhydrosis are:

• Focal injections: interrupting the signal from the nerve to the sweat glands
• Topical treatments: applying aluminum chloride hexahydrate
• Oral medications: treating the underlying conditions
• Lontophoresis: applying low-intensity electric current to affected areas
• Surgery: severing the nerves that cause excess sweating

Which treatment is most effective?
It's important to realize there is no single "right" way to treat Hyperhydrosis. Everyone is different. If you have Hyperhydrosis, you and your doctor need to discuss the option that best suits your situation. How severe your Hyperhydrosis is, where is occurs and how bothersome it is are all factors that have to be considered before choosing a treatment. A consultation with a sweat management specialist will help you determine the best treatment option for you.

Why should I go and see a Hyperhydrosis specialist?
Hyperhydrosis treatment is an area of expertise, and proper diagnosis is required to ensure that you receive the most effective treatment available. Only Hyperhydrosis specialists can offer the full range of treatments available in Canada.

Are the treatments covered by my health plan?
Most treatments mentioned on this website are covered by most private drug plans. The Hyperhydrosis specialists listed on the physician search page will provide you with the necessary assistance when you have the consultation.

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