Hyperhidrosis also known as, Excessive sweating , affects millions of people around the world. It is a medical condition that can cause embarrassment, discomfort, and even social isolation. With hyperhidrosis, individuals experience sweating far beyond what is necessary to regulate body temperature, and it can occur even in cool temperatures or during periods of rest. This condition can be caused by a range of factors, including medical conditions, medications, and genetics. Fortunately, there are effective treatments available that can help manage this condition and improve quality of life. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for hyperhidrosis, as well as tips for prevention and management.
Types
Primary Hyperhidrosis
Primary hyperhidrosis is the most common type of hyperhidrosis, accounting for approximately 90% of all cases. It is a condition that typically develops during adolescence and is often inherited. This type of hyperhidrosis is not associated with any underlying medical condition and is thought to be caused by an overactive sympathetic nervous system. Primary hyperhidrosis typically affects specific areas of the body, such as the underarms, palms, and soles of the feet.
Secondary Hyperhidrosis
Secondary hyperhidrosis is less common than primary hyperhidrosis and is caused by an underlying medical condition or medication. This type of hyperhidrosis can affect the entire body or specific areas, depending on the underlying cause. Conditions that can cause secondary hyperhidrosis include:
- Hormonal changes, such as menopause or thyroid disorders
- Infections, such as tuberculosis or HIV
- Neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease or spinal cord injuries
- Certain medications, such as antidepressants or blood pressure medications
- Cancer, such as lymphoma or leukemia
In addition to these two main types of hyperhidrosis, there are also other less common types of hyperhidrosis, including:
Gustatory Hyperhidrosis
Gustatory hyperhidrosis is a type of hyperhidrosis that is triggered by eating certain foods. This type of hyperhidrosis typically affects the face, neck, and scalp and is caused by a malfunction of the autonomic nervous system.
Craniofacial Hyperhidrosis
Craniofacial hyperhidrosis is a type of hyperhidrosis that affects the head and face. It can be caused by an overactive sympathetic nervous system or an underlying medical condition.
Generalized Hyperhidrosis
Generalized hyperhidrosis is a type of hyperhidrosis that affects the entire body. It can be caused by an underlying medical condition, such as an infection or cancer, or by medication.
Causes
- Primary Hyperhidrosis The primary cause of hyperhidrosis is primary hyperhidrosis itself. This condition is characterized by excessive sweating in certain areas of the body, such as the armpits, hands, or feet, without any apparent cause. Primary hyperhidrosis is thought to be caused by overactivity of the sweat glands, which are controlled by the sympathetic nervous system. It may also be genetic, as many cases have been reported to run in families.
- Secondary Hyperhidrosis Secondary hyperhidrosis is caused by an underlying medical condition or medication. Medical conditions that can cause secondary hyperhidrosis include diabetes, thyroid disorders, menopause, and certain types of cancer. Medications that can cause hyperhidrosis include antidepressants, antipsychotics, and blood pressure medications.
- Medical Conditions Associated with Secondary Hyperhidrosis Medical conditions that are associated with secondary hyperhidrosis can be broadly categorized into neurological, endocrine, and infectious diseases. Neurological disorders that can cause hyperhidrosis include Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries. Endocrine disorders, such as diabetes, hyperthyroidism, and menopause, can also cause excessive sweating. Finally, infectious diseases, such as tuberculosis, HIV, and malaria, can also be associated with hyperhidrosis.
- Medications Causing Hyperhidrosis Many medications can cause excessive sweating as a side effect. Antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), are known to cause sweating as a side effect. Antipsychotics, such as haloperidol and olanzapine, can also cause excessive sweating. Blood pressure medications, such as beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers, can also cause sweating as a side effect.
Symptoms of Hyperhidrosis
Here are the symptoms of hyperhidrosis:
- Visible sweating: One of the most noticeable symptoms of hyperhidrosis is visible sweating, particularly in the affected areas. The sweating can be so excessive that it soaks through clothing, making it difficult to conceal.
- Strong odor: Another symptom of hyperhidrosis is a strong odor that results from the bacteria on the skin breaking down the sweat. This odor can be particularly noticeable in the underarm area.
- Skin irritation: Excessive sweating can cause skin irritation and rashes, particularly in areas where there is skin-on-skin contact, such as the underarms, groin, and feet.
- Difficulty with daily activities: Hyperhidrosis can make it difficult to perform daily activities, particularly those that involve physical activity. Individuals with hyperhidrosis may find that they are constantly changing clothes, showering multiple times a day, and avoiding social situations.
- Emotional distress: Hyperhidrosis can cause significant emotional distress, particularly if it affects areas that are visible to others, such as the face or hands. This can lead to anxiety, depression, and a decrease in overall quality of life.
- Cold and clammy hands and feet: Hyperhidrosis can also cause the hands and feet to feel cold and clammy, even when the rest of the body is warm.
- Reduced grip strength: In some cases, hyperhidrosis can lead to reduced grip strength, particularly in individuals who experience excessive sweating in the hands.
- Difficulty sleeping: Hyperhidrosis can make it difficult to sleep, particularly if the excessive sweating occurs at night. This can lead to fatigue and a decrease in overall quality of life.
Treatment
Here are some of the treatment options for hyperhidrosis:
- Antiperspirants: One of the first-line treatments for hyperhidrosis is antiperspirants. These products contain aluminum chloride, which helps to block sweat glands and reduce sweating. Antiperspirants can be applied to the affected areas, such as the underarms, hands, and feet.
- Prescription medications: If antiperspirants are not effective, your healthcare professional may prescribe medications that can help to reduce sweating. These medications include anticholinergics, which work by blocking the chemical that stimulates the sweat glands, and beta blockers, which can reduce sweating by decreasing the activity of the sympathetic nervous system.
- Botox injections: Botox injections can be an effective treatment option for hyperhidrosis, particularly in the underarms. Botox works by blocking the chemical signals that stimulate the sweat glands, reducing sweating in the treated area. The effects of Botox injections can last for several months before additional treatments are needed.
- Iontophoresis: Iontophoresis is a treatment that uses a low-level electric current to temporarily block sweat glands. This treatment is most commonly used for excessive sweating in the hands and feet. The treatment is administered by placing the affected area in a tray of water that is charged with a low-level electric current.
- Surgery: In severe cases of hyperhidrosis, surgery may be an option. The most common surgical procedure for hyperhidrosis is called a sympathectomy, which involves cutting or clamping the nerves that stimulate the sweat glands. This procedure is typically reserved for cases that have not responded to other treatments.
- Lifestyle changes: Making lifestyle changes can also help to reduce the symptoms of hyperhidrosis. Wearing loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics, such as cotton, can help to reduce sweating. Avoiding spicy foods and alcohol can also help to reduce sweating. Staying hydrated and maintaining a healthy weight can also be beneficial.
Complications
Here are some of the complications of hyperhidrosis:
- Skin infections: Excessive sweating can create a moist environment that is conducive to bacterial and fungal growth, leading to skin infections such as athlete’s foot, jock itch, and impetigo.
- Social isolation and embarrassment: Hyperhidrosis can cause embarrassment and social isolation due to the visible sweat stains on clothing, odor, and discomfort associated with excessive sweating. This can lead to a negative impact on a person’s self-esteem and quality of life.
- Occupational limitations: Hyperhidrosis can also affect a person’s ability to perform certain tasks in their occupation, particularly those that require manual dexterity or frequent contact with others. For example, a person with hyperhidrosis may find it difficult to grip objects or perform tasks that require precision.
- Psychological impact: Hyperhidrosis can have a significant psychological impact on a person, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. The fear of sweating and embarrassment can lead to avoidance behaviors, limiting a person’s ability to engage in social and professional activities.
- Dehydration: Excessive sweating can lead to dehydration, particularly if the person is not replacing fluids lost through sweating with adequate hydration. This can lead to symptoms such as headache, fatigue, and dizziness.
- Increased risk of heat stroke: Hyperhidrosis can also increase the risk of heat stroke, particularly in hot and humid environments. Excessive sweating can deplete the body’s fluids and electrolytes, leading to heat exhaustion and potentially life-threatening heat stroke.