Definition

Hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating. It can be an embarrassing and serious problem. It can affect social, professional, and intimate relationships.

The sweating may be in just one area. It is most common in the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and/or armpits. In some cases, the sweating can also affect the entire body. Hyperhidrosis is divided into 2 categories:

  • Primary hyperhidrosis:
    • Usually affects specific areas
    • Has no known cause
  • Secondary hyperhidrosis:
    • Usually affects the entire body
    • Caused by an underlying condition

Sweat Gland

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Causes

Primary hyperhidrosis may be triggered by:

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

Secondary hyperhidrosis may be caused by conditions such as:

Risk

Factors that may increase the chances of secondary hyperhidrosis are the conditions that cause it (listed above).

Symptoms

Symptoms include:

  • 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 odor associated with sweating
  • Stained clothing

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.

A starch-iodine test is often used on the armpits. It may be used to determine the areas with the most active sweat glands.

Tests may be done if the doctor is concerned about a specific medical condition.

Treatment

Treatment includes:

Lifestyle changes

To help decrease the uncomfortable feeling and odor associated with sweating, try:

  • Frequent clothing changes
  • Careful washing

Topical treatments

A number of treatments can be applied to decrease sweating in a particular area. These include:

  • Aluminum chloride hexahydrate
  • Aluminum tetrachloride
  • Formalin compresses
  • Glutaraldehyde compresses
  • Iontophoresis (stimulation with electrical current)—Needs to be repeated on a daily or weekly basis, eventually tapering off to every 1-2 weeks. May be used if prescription antiperspirants fail.

Medications

Medications are usually used for secondary hyperhidrosis. They are rarely used due to their side effects, but may include:

  • Amitriptyline
  • Clonazepam
  • Beta blockers
  • Calcium channel blockers
  • Gabapentin
  • Oxybutynin
  • Indomethacin

botulinum a neurotoxin

Botulinum A neurotoxin is produced by the bacteria that causes botulism. Injections of this toxin can decrease sweating in certain areas. It is often used on the palms of the hands and armpits. The effect of one cycle of injections may last for 6-8 months for most people.

Surgery

  • Endoscopic thoracic or lumbar sympathectomy—the destruction of nerves that stimulate sweating
  • Curettage—local removal of sweat glands via surgical scraping
  • Ultrasound
  • Liposuction techniques

Prevention

There are no current guidelines to prevent hyperhidrosis.