Hyperhidrosis is a condition where a person sweats much more than the body needs to stay cool. It is not caused by exercise or heat. Sweating can affect the hands, feet, underarms, face, or other parts of the body.
While sweating is normal, people with hyperhidrosis sweat so much that it can soak clothes or drip from their hands. It can be uncomfortable and sometimes affect daily life or confidence.
What is Hyperhidrosis?
Sweating helps the body control temperature. When the temperature rises or you exercise, your sweat glands release moisture to cool you down.
In hyperhidrosis, these glands become overactive and produce more sweat than needed, even when you are resting or in a cool place.
Types of Hyperhidrosis
There are two main types:
- Primary (Focal) Hyperhidrosis:
- The most common type.
- Usually affects specific areas such as the palms, feet, underarms, or face.
- Often starts during childhood or teenage years.
- The exact cause is not known, but it may run in families.
- Secondary (Generalized) Hyperhidrosis:
- Caused by another medical condition or a side effect of medicine.
- Can happen all over the body.
- May start in adulthood.
Causes of Hyperhidrosis
Primary Hyperhidrosis:
- The exact reason is not clear.
- It may be related to a problem with the sympathetic nervous system, which controls sweating.
- It can also run in families.
Secondary Hyperhidrosis:
This type is caused by other health problems or medicines, such as:
- Diabetes.
- Thyroid problems (hyperthyroidism).
- Infections.
- Menopause (hot flashes).
- Low blood sugar.
- Obesity.
- Certain medicines (like antidepressants or painkillers).
Symptoms of Hyperhidrosis
The main symptom is excessive sweating that happens without reason. It may include:
- Wet or moist palms and soles.
- Frequent sweating of underarms.
- Visible sweat marks on clothes.
- Dripping sweat on face or scalp.
- Skin irritation or infection from too much moisture.
The sweating usually happens on both sides of the body equally (both hands, both feet, etc.).
Diagnosis of Hyperhidrosis
Doctors diagnose hyperhidrosis based on symptoms and physical examination. To confirm and understand the cause, they may perform:
- Medical History: Questions about when and where sweating happens, and whether it runs in the family.
- Sweat Tests:
- Starch-iodine test: A powder is applied to the skin, and sweat changes its color to show the affected area.
- Paper test: Special paper is placed on the skin to measure the amount of sweat.
- Blood or Urine Tests: Used to check for conditions like thyroid problems, diabetes, or infections.
Treatment of Hyperhidrosis
The treatment depends on how severe the sweating is and what is causing it.
1. Antiperspirants:
- The first line of treatment.
- Contain aluminum chloride, which blocks sweat glands.
- Applied on affected areas (especially underarms, hands, or feet) before bed.
2. Medicines:
- Anticholinergic drugs can reduce sweating by blocking nerve signals to sweat glands.
- However, they may cause side effects like dry mouth or blurred vision.
3. Iontophoresis:
- A treatment where hands or feet are placed in shallow water and a mild electric current passes through it.
- It helps reduce sweating after a few sessions.
4. Botulinum Toxin (Botox) Injections:
- Small doses are injected into the affected area (like underarms or palms).
- Temporarily blocks the nerves that cause sweating.
- Results last for several months.
5. Surgery:
- Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy (ETS):
- A surgery that cuts or blocks the nerves responsible for excessive sweating.
- Used only in severe cases when other treatments fail.
6. Lifestyle and Home Care:
- Use absorbent pads or moisture-wicking clothing.
- Change socks often and use foot powder for sweaty feet.
- Take baths regularly to prevent odor or skin infections.
- Avoid spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeine, as they can trigger sweating.
Complications of Hyperhidrosis
If not managed, excessive sweating can lead to:
- Skin infections due to moisture.
- Body odor from bacteria on the skin.
- Emotional stress and embarrassment.
- Difficulty in holding objects or writing (due to wet palms).
Living with Hyperhidrosis
Though it can be uncomfortable, hyperhidrosis can be controlled with proper treatment and daily care. People with this condition should:
- Stay clean and dry as much as possible.
- Keep affected areas cool.
- Use prescribed treatments regularly.
- Talk to a doctor if sweating interferes with work, school, or social life.
Support groups or counseling can also help deal with emotional stress or low confidence caused by the condition.
Prevention Tips
While hyperhidrosis cannot always be prevented, these habits can help reduce sweating:
- Avoid hot and humid environments when possible.
- Choose light, breathable clothing made of cotton.
- Use strong antiperspirants instead of deodorants.
- Stay hydrated to keep body temperature stable.
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if you:
- Sweat so much that it affects your daily life.
- Have sudden, excessive sweating without a clear cause.
- Notice night sweats or weight loss.
- Have skin infections or irritation due to sweating.
A doctor can find the cause and suggest the best treatment.
Conclusion
Hyperhidrosis means excessive sweating that is not related to heat or exercise. It can affect certain parts of the body or the whole body. While it is not dangerous, it can be uncomfortable and affect confidence.
Treatments like strong antiperspirants, medicines, Botox injections, or minor procedures can help control it. With the right care and medical support, people with hyperhidrosis can lead normal, active lives.
FAQs
Q1. Is hyperhidrosis a disease?
It is a medical condition caused by overactive sweat glands. It is not dangerous but needs proper treatment.
Q2. Can hyperhidrosis go away on its own?
Sometimes it improves with age, but in most cases, it needs treatment to control symptoms.
Q3. Does stress make hyperhidrosis worse?
Yes. Stress, anxiety, and nervousness can trigger or increase sweating.
Q4. Is surgery safe for hyperhidrosis?
Surgery can help severe cases, but it is used only when other treatments fail, as it has some risks and side effects.
Q5. Can diet affect sweating?
Yes. Spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol can increase sweating. Eating light, balanced meals can help reduce it.