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Hyperhidrosis

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Hyperhidrosis

Definition:

Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition in which a person sweats excessively and unpredictably. People with hyperhidrosis can sweat even when the temperature is cool, and when they are at rest.

Alternative Names:
Sweating - excessive; Perspiration - excessive; Diaphoresis

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

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Sweating helps the body stay cool. In most cases, it is perfectly natural. People sweat more in warm temperatures, when they exercise, or in response to situations that make them nervous, angry, embarrassed, or afraid.  

However, excessive sweating occurs without such triggers. Those with hyperhidrosis appear to have overactive sweat glands. The uncontrollable sweating can lead to significant discomfort, both physical and emotional.

When excessive sweating affects the hands, feet, and armpits, it's called primary or focal hyperhidrosis. Primary hyperhidrosis affects 2%-3% of the population, yet less than 40% of patients with this condition seek medical advice. In the majority of primary hyperhidrosis cases, no cause can be found.  It seems to run in families.

If the sweating occurs as a result of another medical condition, it is called secondary hyperhidrosis. The sweating may be all over the body, or it may be localized to one area. Conditions that cause second hyperhidrosis include:

• acromegaly
• hyperthyroidism
• glucose control disorders
• pheochromocytoma
• carcinoid syndrome
• cancer
• tuberculosis or other infections
• menopause
• spinal cord injury
• stroke
• Parkinson’s disease
• heart or lung disease
• certain medications and substances of abuse
• anxiety conditions

References:

Haider A, Solish N. Focal hyperhidrosis: diagnosis and management. CMAJ. 2005 Jan 4;172(1):69-75.