Hyperhidrosis: Sweating excessively? You might have hyperhidrosis

Humidity and sweat make summers even more disturbing. But are you sweating a lot, and feel something abnormal about it? Well, doctors say that you might suffer from hyperhidrosis.

What is hyperhidrosis?
Excessive sweating, also known as hyperhidrosis, is a disorder that is immensely embarrassing for those who suffer from it. This is also known as polyhidrosis or sudorrhea and is a result of overactive sweat glands.

Hyperhidrosis not just impacts the physical life, but also the social life. Excessive sweating is an issue that affects nearly 3% of the population, resulting to sweaty arms, palms, and feet. Sweating is a healthy way for the body to regulate and cool itself. Everyone sweats, but excessive sweating can be problematic.

Types of hyperhidrosis
There are two types of hyperhidrosis:

• Primary, or primary focal: This is usually inherited, and worsens with puberty, especially in women
• Secondary, or secondary generalized: This is caused by some other condition or behaviour. Some of these might include neurologic syndromes, thyrotoxicosis, diabetes mellitus, gout, menopause, specific medications, chronic alcoholism, spinal cord injury etc.

Dr B L Jangid, dermatologist and hair transplant surgeon, says: “Hyperhidrosis can impact areas like hands, feet, underarms, and face, but some can also have full body sweating. It is frequently misunderstood as ordinary sweating, and people who suffer from it are usually embarrassed to discuss it. Though it can be controlled to a large extent with medical assistance, there is still a need for education and support for those who are affected.”

“People with hyperhidrosis are not only embarrassed by their sweat, but it also has an impact on their career and social life. They avoid wearing white, polyester or nylon clothing. Many people have reported avoiding shaking hands so that they don’t become the central topic of discussion,” he adds.

Tips that might help
• Bathe using antibacterial soap

• Avoid spicy food

• Wear light, breathable fabrics

• Use antiperspirant. It will not prevent sweating but it can try to cover up the odour that bacteria produce when you sweat.

• Stay relaxed and don’t stress yourself.

In a few cases, following these tips won’t help. An experienced dermatologist can guide you better for medical treatments that can include, oral medication, Topical anti- persistent, Botox Injections and in few cases surgery is required.