What is Excessive Sweating (Hyperhidrosis)?
Excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis, is a condition where the body sweats more than necessary to regulate temperature. This condition can occur in specific areas, like the hands, feet, underarms, or face, or it may affect the whole body. While sweating is a natural process to cool the body, people with hyperhidrosis sweat excessively, even without physical exertion or heat.

What causes Excessive Sweating (Hyperhidrosis)?
There are two main types of hyperhidrosis:

• Primary Hyperhidrosis – The most common type, which occurs without an underlying medical condition. It usually affects specific areas of the body, such as the hands, feet, underarms, or face. The exact cause is not known, but it is thought to be related to overactive sweat glands.
• Secondary Hyperhidrosis – This type is caused by an underlying medical condition or external factors. Conditions such as diabetes, hyperthyroidism, menopause, obesity, infections, or certain medications can trigger excessive sweating. If the sweating affects the entire body, it is more likely to be secondary hyperhidrosis.

What are the symptoms of Excessive Sweating (Hyperhidrosis)?
The most obvious symptom of hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating. Symptoms may include:

• Heavy sweating in specific areas like the palms, soles, face, or underarms, even without exercise or heat.
• Sweat stains on clothes or frequent need to change clothes due to dampness.
• Clammy or wet skin on hands, feet, or face.
• Social or emotional discomfort due to visible sweating or the odor associated with it.
• Disruption of daily activities, such as difficulty holding objects or performing fine motor tasks due to sweaty hands.

How is Excessive Sweating (Hyperhidrosis) diagnosed?
To diagnose hyperhidrosis, a doctor will consider your medical history, symptoms, and may conduct a physical exam. Specific tests that may be used include:

• The starch-iodine test – Iodine is applied to the skin, and then starch is sprinkled over it. The areas where you sweat will turn dark, allowing the doctor to pinpoint problem areas.
• The paper test – Paper is placed on the skin, and the amount of sweat it absorbs is measured.
• Lab tests – If secondary hyperhidrosis is suspected, blood tests or other exams may be done to check for underlying conditions, like thyroid problems or infections.

How is Excessive Sweating (Hyperhidrosis) treated?
Treatment for hyperhidrosis depends on the severity of symptoms and the underlying cause (if any). Options include:

• Antiperspirants – Prescription-strength antiperspirants, which contain higher concentrations of aluminum chloride, can help reduce sweating.
• Medications – Oral medications, such as anticholinergics, can block the chemical signals that trigger sweating.
• Botox injections – Botulinum toxin (Botox) can temporarily block the nerves that cause sweating in specific areas like the underarms, hands, or feet.
• Iontophoresis – This treatment uses a mild electrical current to reduce sweating, particularly in the hands and feet.
• Microwave therapy – This involves using microwave energy to destroy sweat glands in the underarms.
• Surgery – In extreme cases, surgery may be recommended, such as sympathectomy, which involves cutting or clipping the nerves that control sweating in the affected area. Another option is sweat gland removal.

Can Excessive Sweating (Hyperhidrosis) be prevented?
While hyperhidrosis can’t always be prevented, especially in cases of primary hyperhidrosis, certain steps can help manage or reduce symptoms:

• Use clinical-strength antiperspirants regularly, particularly at night before bed, when sweat glands are less active.
• Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing made of natural fibers like cotton to reduce sweating.
• Maintain a healthy weight to minimize sweating caused by excess body heat.
• Stay cool in hot weather by using fans, air conditioning, and drinking plenty of water.
• Avoid triggers like spicy foods, caffeine, or stress, which can worsen sweating.

What are the risks of Excessive Sweating (Hyperhidrosis)?
Although hyperhidrosis itself is not dangerous, it can lead to complications that affect a person’s quality of life, including:

• Social and emotional distress – Excessive sweating can cause embarrassment, social isolation, and anxiety, especially if it’s noticeable.
• Skin infections – Constant moisture in sweat-prone areas can increase the risk of fungal and bacterial infections, such as athlete’s foot or fungal infections in the underarms.
• Difficulty performing daily tasks – Sweaty palms and feet can make it challenging to hold objects, type, or walk without slipping.

Can people with Excessive Sweating (Hyperhidrosis) live a normal life?
Yes, people with hyperhidrosis can live a normal life, especially with proper treatment and lifestyle adjustments. Managing the condition through the methods above can reduce the impact of excessive sweating on daily activities. It’s important to seek support if the emotional effects of the condition are affecting your mental well-being.