What Is Hyperhydrosis
Hyperhidrosis – more commonly known as excessive sweating is a condition that causes the
individual to perspire in uncharacteristically large amounts even in normal temperatures. While
this condition can affect any part of the body, the most common areas are the hands and feet due
to the increased amounts of sweat glands in those areas. Hyperhidrosis is usually caused by an
overactive sympathetic nervous system in the body. This system is part of the body’s
autonomous control of blood pressure, heart rate, reactions to external conditions and many other
functions.
The severity of the condition can be categorized by the amount of skin that is affected .With this
method of categorization, excessive sweating in an area more than 100 cm2 in any part of the
body is categorized differently from excessive sweating in a localized area. The second method
is by determining if the condition was inherited or acquired. Inherited conditions are categorized
as primary hyperhidrosis and can be found to show symptoms during adolescence. Conditions
that are acquired through pituitary gland disorders –such as hyperthyroidism, or caused by
biological changes such as menopause are categorized as secondary hyperhidrosis. Symptoms
can appear at any point in life.
There are a few methods of combating hyperhidrosis, amongst which are medication and
surgery. Botox® can be injected to block the chemical transmitters in the body which cause
sweating. It is commonly used on armpit areas and its effects can last for up to 6 months per
injection. Another more common method is to use antiperspirants which contain medication such
as drysol. This contains aluminum hydrochloride which helps with excessive sweating in armpit
areas and hand areas.
The surgical method can be used for hand sweating as well, and is termed sympathectomy.
Almost 75% of patients who have undergone surgery report almost complete or total success.
Another method - auxiliary suction curettage involves inserting small suction tubes into the
subcutaneous layers of the armpit area and sweat glands are sucked out and curetted repeatedly.
Excessive sweating can interfere with daily routine activities – making holding objects difficult
and even giving a hug or shaking hands become situations to avoid. However there are steps to
maintain comfort. Pack a change of clothes, keep a bottle of water at hand at all times to
replenish lost body fluids and if possible adjust the room’s temperature to prevent more
sweating. Always consult a medical professional should the condition cannot be explained or are
accompanied by other physical symptoms.
For more proved methods and information visit Sweatfix