Hyperhidrosis

What is hyperhidrosis?

It’s a term that’s used to describe a condition that causes excessive sweating. It mainly affects the face, armpits, hands, and feet.

If you haven’t been exercising or aren’t hot, but are sweating a lot, then that’s considered excessive and it’s a good idea to discuss treatment options with a doctor.

Excessive sweating can be caused by a few different factors, such as anxiety or stress, but it’s important to rule out anything more serious that could be causing it.

Who gets hyperhidrosis?

It can start at any age, though there is a condition called primary hyperhidrosis which starts during childhood or puberty.

Secondary hyperhidrosis can start later on in life and can be caused by a range of different health conditions. If you think you’re suffering from excessive sweating and aren’t sure why, it’s a good idea to have a chat with your doctor to make sure there’s no underlying problem.

How common is hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis is a pretty common condition. It’s likely that across the US there are millions of people living with it. It’s believed to affect up to 5 in every 100 people throughout all age groups. ^[1]

What causes hyperhidrosis?

Primary hyperhidrosis, which often begins in childhood, is caused by genetics. Secondary hyperhidrosis, which means it’s been caused by another condition, can occur for any number of reasons.

It can happen because of anxiety, but it can also be caused by endocrine or metabolic conditions, infections, or heart failure. Excessive drinking or drug use can also be a contributing factor.

What are the symptoms of hyperhidrosis?

The main symptom of hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating that happens at times other than when you would naturally sweat. Your sympathetic nervous system sends a signal to your brain telling it to release sweat from glands when it gets too hot, whether that be due to warm weather or exercise. It acts a bit like your body’s own thermostat.

In someone with hyperhidrosis, this same messaging occurs, but at times when there’s no real reason for you to sweat or for the body to cool down.

Can hyperhidrosis lead to other problems?

On its own, hyperhidrosis isn’t a dangerous condition, although it can be frustrating to live with. However, in some cases, it can be a sign of other health conditions or illnesses that might require medical attention or a visit to your doctor to make sure all is well.