Hyperhidrosis: Diagnosis and Treatment
Most people sweat when they exercise, get tired, when they are in a hot environment, or when they are anxious or stressed. There is profuse sweating (over sweating) in the hands and feet.
By Medicover Hospitals /11 Mar 2021
Causes
Sweating is your body's natural cooling mechanism. When your body temperature rises, your nervous system automatically activates your sweat glands. It is also common when you are nervous which happens especially on your palms.
Types
- Primary focal (essential) hyperhidrosis It is the most common type of hyperhidrosis. The nerves responsible for signaling your sweat glands become overactive in this type, even if they haven't been triggered by physical activity or a temperature rise. The problem is exacerbated by stress or nervousness. This type typically affects your palms and soles, as well as your face. This type of hyperhidrosis has no medical cause because it sometimes runs in families and may have a hereditary component.
- Secondary Hyperhidrosis When excessive sweating is caused by a medical condition, this is referred to as secondary hyperhidrosis. It's the rarer variety. It is more likely to cause excessive sweating throughout your body. Conditions that cause over sweating are:
- Diabetes
- Hot flashes during menopause
- Thyroid issues
- Low blood sugar levels
- Certain types of cancer
- Heart attack
- Nervous system dysfunctions
- Infections
Certain medications, as well as opioid withdrawal, can cause excessive sweating.
Complications
Hyperhidrosis complications include:
- Infections People who sweat excessively are more likely to develop more severe skin infections.
- Social and emotional consequences It can be embarrassing to have clammy or dripping hands and perspiration-soaked clothes. Your medical condition may have an impact on your ability to pursue work and educational objectives.
Diagnosis
Your doctor will inquire about your medical history and symptoms during your session. You could also need a physical exam or testing to figure out what's causing your problem.
- Lab Tests Your doctor may recommend blood, urine, or other lab tests to determine if your sweating is caused by another medical problem, such as hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) or low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
- Tests on sweat Sweat test for thermoregulation, Activate the pop-up dialogue box test, an iodine-starch test, skin conductance, and a thermoregulatory sweat test are among the tests available to localize sweating locations and determine the severity of your problem.
Treatment
If an underlying medical condition is causing the problem, it will be treated first. If no particular cause is diagnosed, treatment focuses on reducing excessive sweating. You may need to try a combination of treatments at times. Even if your sweating improves after treatment, it is possible that it will return.
When to visit a Doctor?
Excessive sweating can be a sign of a serious condition. Seek medical attention right away if your excessive sweating is accompanied by lightheadedness, chest pain, or nausea.
