All about the condition that can cause a person to sweat excessively, despite not being exposed to heat

Explaining the same, Dr Rajesh Kumar, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Paras Health, Gurugram said, “There are two types of hyperhidrosis — generalised or localised to specific parts of the body. When excessive sweating is localised, it is known as primary or focal hyperhidrosis, while excessive sweating that involves the whole body is termed as generalised or secondary hyperhidrosis, and is usually a result of an underlying condition.”

Causes of hyperhidrosis

In hyperhidrosis, your body’s sweat glands overreact, which causes you to sweat a lot, often at places where others would not. “Sometimes, a medical condition such as anxiety can also trigger excessive sweating. The most commonly observed symptoms include wet palms, wet soles, sweating frequently, and sweating that soaks through clothing. Excessive sweating may also lead to itching or inflammation in affected areas, body odour, and skin discolouration,” Dr Kumar told indianexpress.com.

Although a benign condition, hyperhidrosis can deteriorate the quality of life due to its psychological and emotional underpinnings. Heavy sweating can disrupt your day and cause social anxiety and embarrassment.

Diagnosis of hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis can deteriorate quality of life due to its psychological and emotional underpinnings. (Source: Freepik)

Excessive sweating may be due to underlying conditions, so your healthcare provider may recommend a few tests to help identify the cause. These tests include:

*Starch-iodine test: Your provider applies an iodine solution to the affected area and sprinkle starch over it. The solution turns dark blue upon excessive sweating.

*Paper test: Your provider places special paper on the area to absorb sweat. Later, they weigh the paper to determine how much you sweated.

Treatment

According to the expert, there is no cure for focal hyperhidrosis and the treatment is centred around reducing the symptoms. Secondary hyperhidrosis can be treated if underlying problem is alleviated.

The provider may recommend lifestyle changes or medications such as:

*Showering more often or wearing breathable fabrics
*Antiperspirants to seal up sweat glands
*Oral medications
*Clinical-grade cloth wipes
*Botox injections

Concluding, Dr Kumar said, “You should consult a healthcare provider if sweating negativity impacts your life, causes you to avoid activities, worsens over time or happens overnight while you sleep.”

📣 For more lifestyle news, follow us on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook and don’t miss out on the latest updates!