Hyperhidrosis

Definition

Hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating. Common places are the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and the armpits.

Sweat Gland.

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Causes

Primary hyperhidrosis does not have a cause. It may be triggered by:

• High emotional states, such as intense sadness, fear, anger, or stress
• Spicy foods
• Hot climates
• Certain medicines

Secondary hyperhidrosis is caused by an underlying health problem, such as:

• Fever
• Infection
• Menopause
• Health problems, such as:
  • Cancer, such as lymphoma
  • Thyroid disease
  • Acromegaly or anterior pituitary tumor
  • Hypothalamic disorders
  • Adrenal tumor
  • Parkinson disease
  • Problems with the nervous system
  • Diabetes
  • Tuberculosis
• Drug withdrawal
• Certain medicines

Risk Factors

Things that may raise the risk of hyperhidrosis are:

• A family history of hyperhidrosis
• Having any of the problems (listed above) that cause it

Symptoms

Problems may be:

• Excessive sweating of palms of the hands and/or soles of the feet
• Excessive sweating of the armpits, head, and/or face
• Increased amount of sweating
• Change in pattern of sweating
• Change in the sweat odor
• Stained, wet clothing

This problem can be embarrassing and affect relationships.

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and past health. A physical exam will be done. This may be enough to make the diagnosis in some people.

Tests may be done to find out what may be causing the problem.

Treatment

The goal is to manage symptoms. Treatment may depend on the severity. It may also depend on what part of the body is affected.

Treatments to help stop sweating may include:

Habit changes may help reduce excess sweating. They may include:

• Avoiding spicy foods or alcohol
• Avoiding stressful situations and known emotional triggers
• Using antiperspirant spray instead of deodorant
• Wearing loose-fitting clothing made of natural fibers, like cotton
• Wearing shoes that allow the feet to get enough air

Hyperhidrosis can affect a person's social life. Counseling can help reduce anxiety and teach coping skills.

Medicines may be used to treat secondary hyperhidrosis. This is not common due to side effects.

Botulinum A neurotoxin injections can ease sweating in certain areas. It is often used on the palms of the hands and armpits. It can last 6 to 8 months.

If other treatments do not help, surgery can be done to remove sweat glands from the underarms. Surgery may include:

• Endoscopic thoracic or lumbar sympathectomy—to kill the nerves that stimulate sweating
• Curettage—to remove sweat glands with surgical scraping
• Liposuction techniques—to remove sweat glands

Prevention

There are no current guidelines to prevent hyperhidrosis.