Excessive Sweating Explained: Causes, Treatments and Tips for Managing Hyperhidrosis

Excessive Sweating: Causes, Treatments, and Tips for Managing It

Sweating is a normal bodily function that helps regulate temperature. But for some people, sweating far exceeds what’s necessary and becomes a real problem in daily life.

Excessive sweating, medically known as hyperhidrosis, is a common condition estimated to affect 3% of the population. It extends beyond normal sweating and can drench clothes, make hands clammy, and cause social anxiety.

If you suffer from excessive sweating, know that you’re not alone. And effective treatments are available to get it under control.

Here’s what you need to know about this bothersome condition.

What Causes Excessive Sweating?

Sweating is controlled by the sympathetic nervous system. When body temperature rises, nerve signals tell sweat glands in the skin to release fluid. As the sweat evaporates, it cools the body.

In most cases of excessive sweating, this system becomes hyperactive and sweating occurs even without a heat trigger. Doctors don’t know exactly why this malfunction happens.

Factors that may contribute to excessive sweating include:

• Hormone changes
• Stress and anxiety
• Genetics
• Hyperthyroidism
• Menopause
• Obesity
• Diabetes

Hyperhidrosis has two main forms:

Primary Focal Hyperhidrosis

This type causes excessive sweating in specific areas even when you're not hot or exercising. The hands, feet, underarms, and face are most commonly affected.

Secondary Generalized Hyperhidrosis

This leads to excessive sweating all over the body. It may be a side effect of an underlying medical condition or medication.

Where Does Excessive Sweating Occur?

Although hyperhidrosis can cause sweating anywhere, these are the most common localized areas:

Palmar Hyperhidrosis

Excessive sweating of the hands interferes with grip and causes emotional distress. Tasks like shaking hands or holding a pen become difficult.

Plantar Hyperhidrosis

Too much sweating of the feet makes them slippery. It also leads to problems like athlete’s foot fungus due to the moist environment.

Axillary Hyperhidrosis

Underarm sweating soaks through shirts and can cause embarrassing sweat stains. The constant dampness also promotes skin irritation and yellow discoloration of armpits.

Facial Hyperhidrosis

Excessive facial sweating is particularly troubling, since the face is so frequently on public display. Sweat dripping down the forehead, nose, lips and cheeks is socially disabling.

7 Problems Caused by Excessive Sweating

Beyond just being annoying, excessive sweating can lead to several complications:

1. Dehydration - Losing fluid through heavy sweating can lead to dehydration with symptoms like dizziness, headache, and dark urine.
2. Skin infections - Bacteria thrive in the warm, moist environment created by sweating. Infections like athlete’s foot and pitted keratolysis can develop.
3. Body odor - Sweat itself is odorless, but bacteria on the skin produce unpleasant smells when they break it down.
4. Discomfort - Drenched clothing feels unpleasant. Sweat dripping into eyes stings. And slipper hands make tasks difficult.
5. Damaged clothing/shoes - The excess moisture ruins clothing by causing stains and warping material.
6. Social anxiety - Many people feel self-conscious about sweating a lot around others and avoid social situations.
7. Skin irritation - Constant moisture softens skin, making it more prone to friction. Chafing and discomfort result.

When to See a Doctor

Make an appointment with your doctor if excessive sweating:

• Causes daily life interference
• Leads to skin problems
• Worsens without explanation
• Occurs along with other unexplained symptoms

Seek immediate care if you experience sweating along with chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness as it may signal a medical emergency.

Diagnosing Hyperhidrosis

To diagnose hyperhidrosis, a doctor will likely:

• Discuss your symptoms and medical history
• Examine areas that sweat excessively
• Rule out underlying conditions like infections
• Consider doing a starch-iodine test to map affected areas

You may also be referred to a dermatologist who specializes in hyperhidrosis treatment.

7 Treatments Options for Excessive Sweating

A variety of effective treatments are available for managing hyperhidrosis. Discuss options with your doctor to find the best treatment plan for your situation.

1. Antiperspirants

Over-the-counter antiperspirants containing aluminum chloride or aluminum zirconium can help mild cases when applied nightly. Prescription-strength formulas are also available.

2. Iontophoresis

This procedure uses electrical current passed through water to temporarily block sweat glands. Multiple treatments are usually needed to see results.

3. Botox Injections

Botox injections block nerve signals to sweat glands. Treatment lasts 3-12 months but requires repeated injections as effects wear off.

4. Anticholinergic Medications

Oral medications like glycopyrrolate block acetylcholine which stimulates sweat glands. Side effects like dry mouth often occur.

5. Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy

This minor surgery cuts nerve signals to sweat glands. It provides lasting sweat reduction in the underarms but has side effects.

6. Laser Sweat Ablation

A dermatologist uses a laser to target and destroy sweat glands in the underarms. Multiple treatments may be needed.

7. MiraDry

This non-invasive treatment uses microwave energy to eliminate underarm sweat and odor glands. Sessions can be repeated annually.

Coping with Excessive Sweating in Daily Life

In addition to medical treatments, making certain lifestyle adjustments can help you manage excessive sweating:

• Wear moisture-wicking and breathable fabrics like cotton and linen.
• Change damp clothes frequently throughout the day.
• Apply talcum powder to sweaty areas.
• Wear shoes with good ventilation.
• Avoid spicy foods that may trigger sweating.
• Carry paper towels or handkerchiefs.
• Shower immediately after exercise.
• Avoid caffeine and other stimulants.

The Outlook for Managing Hyperhidrosis

Living with excessive, uncontrollable sweating can be frustrating. But various effective treatments are available to control symptoms.

With a combination of medical and lifestyle management, most people find they can successfully reduce sweating to normal levels and improve their quality of life.

Working closely with your doctor is key to combating hyperhidrosis and enjoying social, work, and daily activities without embarassment.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.