Hyperhidrosis is a term used to describeexcessive sweatingthat affects the bodys natural temperature.
It is not simply heavy sweating that occurs with strenuous activity.
Hyperhidrosis is not the same thing as excessive sweating during exercise or in response to hot or humid climates.
Verywell / Emily Roberts
The eccrine sweat glands are distributed over most of the body and function as the bodys primary cooling system.
The apocrine sweat glands located primarily in the armpits and around the anus serve no regulatory purpose.
From the broadest perspective, hyperhidrosis can be described as being either primary focal hyperhidrosis or secondary hyperhidrosis.
Primary hyperhidrosis is so-named because the sweatingisthe condition.
Around 3 percent of the population are affected by primary hyperhidrosis.
The condition is equally common in men and women.
It is for this reason that the condition is often referred to as a silent handicap.
Primary hyperhidrosis may be further broken down by the part of the body affected.
Among them:
Primary hyperhidrosis often begins in childhood, especially palmoplantar hyperhidrosis.
As opposed to primary focal hyperhidrosis, secondary hyperhidrosis can occur at any age.
It may also occur while sleeping in the form ofnight sweats.
Causes
The causes of hyperhidrosis are numerous.
In some cases, the cause may never be found, particularly with primary hyperhidrosis.
In some cases, even smelling or thinking of food can elicit a response.
With that being said, the diversity of symptoms suggests that there may be a variety of genetic causes.
Any problem occurring along this route can potentially trigger the overproduction of sweat.
Secondary hyperhidrosis is sweating sparked by a medical condition or is drug-induced.
It is a symptom of a primary condition rather than the condition itself.
Moreover, episodes must occur at least once weekly.
The first step in the diagnostic process is to differentiate primary focal hyperhidrosis from secondary hyperhidrosis.
This can often be done with a physical exam and lab tests.
Lab Tests
Blood tests may also be ordered to confirm or exclude underlying causes.
Treatment
The treatment of hyperhidrosis varies by the cause.
Other conditions may require chronic medications, surgery, or more extensive lifestyle changes.
Generally speaking, if the underlying condition is resolved or managed, the symptoms of hyperhidrosis will correct themselves.
However, if no clear cause is found, the treatment will be focused on controlling the sweating.
A combination of treatments is often required.
Even then, recurrence is common, and additional or repeated treatments may be needed.
The antiperspirant works by forming a plug in the pore of the sweat gland.
Doing so sends signals to the brain to halt the production of sweat.
These are easily found over-the-counter and in prescription formulations as well.
Don’t confuse antiperspirants for deodorants which are used to conceal smells.
Always pre-test the antiperspirant on a patch of skin.
Skin irritation and a burning sensation are common side effects.
You will also need to wash regularly to prevent pore blockage.
Contrary to popular belief, shaving your armpits does not reduce the amount you sweat.
They should only be considered if all other forms of conservative therapy have failed to provide relief.
In addition:
It may surprise you to know that there are unofficial support groups for people with hyperhidrosis.
Start by speaking with your healthcare provider to identify the underlying cause of your condition.
Even though hyperhidrosis is not life-threatening, it can be life-altering.
Do yourself a favor and dont ignore your condition.
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