About Hyperhidrosis (Abnormally Excessive Sweating)
Hyperhidrosis, also known as abnormally excessive sweating, is a medical condition characterized by sweating beyond what is necessary for regulating body temperature, also called thermoregulation. The body normally uses sweat for temperature control. Hyperhidrosis can occur in various situations, including cooler weather or without any trigger at all. There are two types of hyperhidrosis:
- Primary focal hyperhidrosis (PFH): This type of hyperhidrosis is not caused by another medical condition or medication side effect. It typically involves symmetrical sweating on specific areas of the body, such as the hands or feet. Excessive sweating occurs at least once a week.
- Secondary generalized hyperhidrosis (SGH): SGH occurs when another medical condition or medication side effect leads to excessive sweating. People with SGH tend to sweat across large sections of their body and may even experience sweating while sleeping.
Hyperhidrosis can be uncomfortable and affect daily activities. Treatment options are available to provide relief. If you suspect you have hyperhidrosis, it's important to see a doctor to determine the cause and explore appropriate management strategies.
Hyperhidrosis can be caused by various factors.
- Primary focal hyperhidrosis is believed to be due to a problem with the sympathetic nervous system, which controls bodily functions including sweating.
- Secondary generalized hyperhidrosis is caused by an underlying medical condition or medication side effect. Some underlying causes are diabetes, certain cancers, menopause with hot flashes, and infections.
Risk factors of hyperhidrosis:
- Family History: If close relatives have hyperhidrosis, you are more likely to have it, suggesting a genetic link.
- Age: Primary hyperhidrosis often begins in childhood or adolescence.
- Underlying Conditions: Secondary hyperhidrosis, which affects larger areas of the body, can be caused by conditions like diabetes, hyperthyroidism, or menopause.
- Medications: Certain medications, like antidepressants or medications for high blood pressure, can trigger excessive sweating.
- Anxiety or Stress: Emotional stress can worsen symptoms in people prone to hyperhidrosis.
It's important to note that while these factors may contribute to the development of hyperhidrosis, each individual's experience with the condition can vary. If you suspect you have hyperhidrosis, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management options.
Symptoms of hyperhidrosis include:
- Clammy or wet palms of the hands.
- Clammy or wet soles of the feet.
- Frequent sweating.
- Noticeable sweating that soaks through clothing.
- Irritating and painful skin problems, like fungal or bacterial infections.
- With primary hyperhidrosis, excessive sweating does not usually occur while sleeping.
The impact of hyperhidrosis may cause individuals to:
- Worry about stained clothing.
- Be reluctant to make physical contact.
- Be self-conscious.
- Withdraw socially, which may sometimes lead to depression.
- Select employment where physical contact or human interaction is not required.
- Spend a large amount of time each day dealing with sweat, such as changing clothes, wiping, placing napkins or pads under the arms, washing, wearing bulky or dark clothes.
- Worry more than other people about body odor.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
To diagnose hyperhidrosis, doctors may perform the following examinations, tests, and procedures:
- Medical history: Doctors will ask about your symptoms and when and where the excessive sweating occurs.
- Physical examination: Doctors will examine the areas affected by sweating.
- Sweat test: A sweat test involves covering areas of the skin with a powder that turns purple when wet. This helps identify excessive sweating.
- Blood tests: These tests can help identify any underlying medical conditions that may be causing the excessive sweating.
- Urine tests: Similar to blood tests, urine tests can help identify any underlying causes of hyperhidrosis.
Additional examinations, tests, and procedures may include:
- Hyperhidrosis Disease Severity Scale (HDSS): This scale assesses the tolerability of sweating and its impact on daily life on a 4-point scale.
- Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI): This index is used to evaluate the severity of the condition by assessing its effect on a person's quality of life.
- Starch-iodine test: This test involves applying iodine to the sweaty area and sprinkling starch on it. If the starch turns dark blue, it indicates excess sweating.
- Paper test: Special paper is placed on the sweaty area and weighed after absorbing sweat. A heavier weight suggests excessive sweating.
- Thermoregulatory test: This test uses a special powder sensitive to moisture. It changes color in areas with excessive sweating and may involve sitting in a sauna or sweat cabinet.
Remember, these are general examinations, tests, and procedures. It's important to consult with your healthcare professional for personalized advice.
The goals of treatment for hyperhidrosis are to reduce or control excessive sweating and improve quality of life. Here are the recommended treatments and how they work:
Medications:
- Prescription-strength antiperspirants: These contain aluminum chloride and help reduce sweating when applied to the affected areas.
- Anticholinergic medications: These oral drugs block certain neurotransmitters and can help reduce sweating.
Therapies: and Therapeutic Procedures:
- Botox injections: Small amounts of Botox injected into the affected area can block nerves and stop excessive sweating.
- Iontophoresis: This therapy uses an electric current to treat sweat glands, particularly for excessive sweating on the hands and feet.
- Sympathectomy: This surgical procedure involves cutting specific nerves to interrupt the signals that cause excessive sweating.
- MiraDry: This FDA-approved treatment uses electromagnetic energy to destroy underarm sweat glands.
Self-care and health behavior changes:
- Using over-the-counter antiperspirants: These can help control mild cases of hyperhidrosis, although they may not be as effective as prescription-strength options.
- Wearing breathable clothing and using absorbent materials: These can help manage sweat and prevent skin irritation.
It's important to note that treatment options may vary depending on the severity of hyperhidrosis. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.