In this guide brought to you by Premier Neurology, we explain how Botox can be used to address hypersalivation and hyperhidrosis.
What Is Hypersalivation?
Hypersalivation, also known as sialorrhea, is a medical condition in which someone’s salivary glands produce much more saliva than usual. As a result, the excess saliva might unintentionally drip or spill out of the person’s mouth. Hypersalivation can be chronic or temporary, depending on the underlying cause.
Temporary hypersalivation can be expected to subside as soon as the underlying medical condition is treated. Causes of temporary hypersalivation can include:
- Cavities
- Infection
- Acid reflux
- Pregnancy
- Certain medications, such as tranquilizers and anticonvulsant drugs
- Exposure to mercury or other toxins
Chronic hypersalivation can be caused by other chronic medical conditions that impair muscle control and affect an individual’s ability to swallow. Treatment is important in cases of chronic hypersalivation, as the condition affects an individual’s ability to speak and swallow food or drink without the risk of choking. Medical conditions that can cause chronic hypersalivation include:
- Enlarged tongue
- Intellectual disability
- Cerebral palsy
- Facial nerve palsy
- Stroke
- Malocclusion of teeth
- Parkinson’s disease
- Multiple sclerosis
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
What Are Treatment Options For Hypersalivation?
In cases of temporary hypersalivation, the best solution is to treat the underlying cause. For example, if the cause of hypersalivation is a cavity or gum infection, then the best solution is to seek treatment from your dentist so that your dental health issues are not exacerbated. Once the cavity or gum infection is treated, you can expect your symptom of hypersalivation to go away.
When it comes to cases of chronic hypersalivation, the experts at Premier Neurology want our patients to get results without hit-or-miss medications with side effects. This is why we offer Botox injections with ultrasound guidance to target the salivary glands and reduce excessive saliva production and drooling.
What Is Hyperhidrosis?
Hyperhidrosis is the formal term for chronic excessive sweating. Your body uses sweat as a means to cool itself down. However, someone with hyperhidrosis can experience sweating that soaks their clothing or drips off the palms of their hands. Excessive sweating can occur in the following areas of the body:
- Scalp
- Face
- Underarms
- Palms
- Feet
People who live with hyperhidrosis often feel inconvenienced by this condition. Because of concerns surrounding damp clothing or body odor, people with excessive sweating may be more socially withdrawn as a result.
Hyperhidrosis is classified into one of two types. Primary hyperhidrosis (or focal hyperhidrosis) is a hereditary skin condition. People with this type of hyperhidrosis often start experiencing symptoms before they reach adulthood. Secondary hyperhidrosis is caused by another underlying condition, such as one of the following:
- Medical conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, or gout
- A side effect of certain medications
- Spinal cord injury
- Chronic alcoholism
Some types of cancers cause excessive sweating during the night time. People who experience night sweats should go to their doctor to make sure they do not have a very serious condition.
What Are My Treatment Options For Hyperhidrosis?
Hyperhidrosis can be treated by topical drying creams and oral medications, and in some instances, your healthcare provider may suggest dietary changes. At Premier Neurology, we offer Botox injections to target excess sweating. Botox for hyperhidrosis is most effective when targeting the armpit area, but can also be used for sweaty palms and feet. Botox injections can successfully reduce excess sweat for up to 4-6 months at a time by numbing the nerve that controls sweating. This treatment is especially beneficial when someone has weddings or other special occasions coming up.
If you are seeking Botox injections to address hypersalivation or hyperhidrosis in Stuart, Florida, or the surrounding neighborhoods, consider Premier Neurology. In addition to Botox for medical use, we are glad to offer a number of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, and telehealth for your health and wellness. Call and see how we can improve your life today at 772-210-2447.
