Hyperhidrosis Health Article

Definition

Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition in which a person sweats excessively and unpredictably. People with hyperhidrosis may sweat even when the temperature is cool or when they are at rest.

Alternative Names

Sweating - excessive; Perspiration - excessive; Diaphoresis

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Sweating helps the body stay cool. In most cases, it is perfectly natural. People sweat more in warm temperatures, when they exercise, or in response to situations that make them nervous, angry, embarrassed, or afraid.

However, excessive sweating occurs without such triggers. Those with hyperhidrosis appear to have overactive sweat glands. The uncontrollable sweating can lead to significant discomfort, both physical and emotional.

When excessive sweating affects the hands, feet, and armpits, it's called primary or focal hyperhidrosis. Primary hyperhidrosis affects 2 - 3% of the population, yet less than 40% of patients with this condition seek medical advice. In the majority of primary hyperhidrosis cases, no cause can be found. It seems to run in families.

If the sweating occurs as a result of another medical condition, it is called secondary hyperhidrosis. The sweating may be all over the body, or it may be in one area. Conditions that cause second hyperhidrosis include:

• Acromegaly
• Anxiety conditions
• Cancer
• Carcinoid syndrome
• Certain medications and substances of abuse
• Glucose control disorders
• Heart disease
• Hyperthyroidism
• Lung disease
• Menopause
• Parkinson’s disease
• Pheochromocytoma
• Spinal cord injury
• Stroke
• Tuberculosis or other infections

Symptoms

The primary symptom of hyperhidrosis is wetness.

Signs and tests

Visible signs of sweating may be noted during a doctor's visit. A number of tests may also be used to diagnose excessive sweating. Tests include:

Tests include:

• Starch-iodine test. An iodine solution is applied to the sweaty area. After it dries, starch is sprinkled on the area. The starch-iodine combination turns a dark blue color wherever there is excess sweat.
• Paper test. Special paper is placed on the affected area to absorb the sweat, and then weighed. The heavier it weights, the more sweat has accumulated.

You may be also be asked details about your sweating, such as:

• Location
  • Does it occur your face, palms, or armpits, or all over the body?
• Time pattern
  • Does it occur at night?
  • Did it begin suddenly?
• Triggers
  • Does the sweating occur when you are reminded of something that upset you (such as traumatic event)?
• What other symptoms do you have, for example:
  • Weight loss
  • Pounding heartbeat
  • Cold or clammy hands
  • Fever
  • Lack of appetite