Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition characterized by excessive sweating that goes beyond what is necessary to regulate body temperature. First coined in 1860, the word comes from the Greek word hidrōsis, which means “sweat,” and the prefix “hyper,” which means “above,” “much” or “greater.”
It can affect specific areas, like the palms, feet, underarms, or face, or can occur across the entire body. You may experience unexpected sweating in cold temperatures, when you’re at rest, or randomly at times when you wouldn’t expect to perspire. This condition may interfere with daily activities and cause emotional distress.
2. What can cause hyperhidrosis?
Hyperhidrosis can be classified into two types:
Primary (focal) hyperhidrosis: This is the most common type, often affecting specific areas (like the hands, feet, or underarms). It is not linked to any underlying medical condition and is believed to be due to faulty nerve signals that trigger overactivity of the sweat glands. It can be influenced by genetics.
Secondary (generalized) hyperhidrosis: This type is caused by underlying health conditions, which can include diabetes, hyperthyroidism, menopause, obesity, and neurological disorders. It can also be caused by infections, medications (such as antidepressants or medications for high blood pressure), and alcohol or substance use.
3. Are there any home remedies for hyperhidrosis?
Yes, there are some home remedies that might help manage hyperhidrosis symptoms. Over-the-counter antiperspirants containing aluminum chloride can help block sweat glands and reduce sweating. Applying cornstarch, talcum powder, or diluted apple cider vinegar can help absorb moisture and reduce sweating.
What you wear can matter, too—loose-fitting clothes made of natural fabrics, like cotton, can help keep the skin cool and reduce sweat.
Drinking sage tea or using it topically can reduce sweating, as sage has natural astringent properties. Drinking plenty of water and avoiding spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol can reduce excessive sweating for some people.
4. What are the best medical treatments/preventative methods for hyperhidrosis?
Before diagnosing hyperhidrosis, your health care provider may recommend blood, urine or other lab tests to see if your sweating is caused by another medical condition, such as low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) or an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). Or they may recommend a test that identifies the areas of sweating and evaluates the severity of your condition. Two such tests are a sweat test and an iodine-starch test.
Effective medical treatments for hyperhidrosis vary depending on the severity of the condition. Prescription antiperspirants are stronger than over-the-counter versions, and contain higher concentrations of aluminum chloride.
Oral medications, including anticholinergic drugs (such as glycopyrrolate), can reduce sweating by blocking the nerves that trigger sweat glands. Botulinum toxin (Botox) injected into areas prone to sweating (like the underarms or palms) can have the same effect.
Iontophoresis is a treatment using low-level electrical currents through water to reduce sweating, particularly for hands and feet. Microwave therapy, using a device that uses microwave energy, can destroy sweat glands under the skin.
In severe cases, surgery may be an option to remove sweat glands or cut the nerves that trigger excessive sweating (sympathectomy).