Excessive Sweating

What is Excessive Sweating

The medical term for excessive sweating is hyperhidrosis. It may only affect the armpits, feet or hands or it may affect all areas supplied by sweat glands. The definitive cause is not known, although hot weather, exercise and anxiety are usually common causes. In some cases an infection or hypoglycaemia (an abnormally low level of glucose in the blood) may play a part.

What are the Symptoms of Excessive Sweating

The primary symptom of hyperhidrosis is wetness.

What are the Causes of Excessive Sweating

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.

Traditional Medical Treatments for Excessive Sweating

If the problem is severe, ask your doctor for advice.Topical anti-perspirants may be beneficial and these can be purchased over the counter.