Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition that causes excessive sweating beyond what the body needs for temperature regulation. In other words, people with hyperhidrosis sweat more than necessary to cool the body. This sweating can happen even when it is not hot and even when a person is not exercising.
Quick Summary
- Hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating that goes beyond what the body needs to stay cool.
- Common areas include the underarms, hands, feet, face, and scalp.
- Primary hyperhidrosis often starts earlier in life and may run in families.
- Secondary hyperhidrosis can be caused by medications or underlying medical conditions.
- Treatment options may include prescription antiperspirants, methenamine cream, glycopyrrolate, and iontophoresis.
What Is Hyperhidrosis?
Hyperhidrosis means excessive sweating. Sweating is a normal and necessary body function because it helps regulate temperature and prevent overheating. With hyperhidrosis, however, sweat glands produce more sweat than the body actually needs.
This can affect daily life in many ways, including discomfort, embarrassment, trouble gripping objects, sweat marks on clothing, skin irritation, and difficulty with work, school, or social situations.
Where Does Hyperhidrosis Usually Occur?
Hyperhidrosis can affect different parts of the body, but the most common areas include:
- Underarms
- Hands
- Feet
- Face and scalp
Some people also experience excessive sweating in other areas, such as the chest, under the breasts, or groin.
How Do You Know If You Have Hyperhidrosis?
You may have primary hyperhidrosis if you have visible, excessive sweating for at least 6 months without an obvious cause, along with features such as:
- Sweating that happens at least once per week
- Sweating that interferes with daily life
- Symptoms that began before age 25
- Sweating that tends to stop during sleep
- A family history of excessive sweating
- Sweating that affects both sides of the body in a similar way
If this sounds familiar, it may be worth speaking with a healthcare professional about whether you have hyperhidrosis and which treatment options may fit your symptoms.
Primary vs Secondary Hyperhidrosis
Primary Hyperhidrosis
Primary hyperhidrosis is the most common type. It usually affects specific body areas such as the underarms, hands, feet, or face. The exact cause is not fully understood, but it is thought to involve overactive eccrine sweat glands and may run in families.
Secondary Hyperhidrosis
Secondary hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating caused by another issue, such as a medication or an underlying medical condition. This type may be more generalized and may also occur during sleep.
This distinction matters because treatment and evaluation can differ depending on the cause.
What Causes Hyperhidrosis?
In primary hyperhidrosis, the exact cause is not fully known. What is known is that eccrine sweat glands produce too much sweat in response to normal triggers. Eccrine sweat is clear and odorless and is the type of sweat most closely involved in hyperhidrosis.
Apocrine sweat glands, which are associated more closely with body odor, are not the main glands involved in primary hyperhidrosis.
Can Hyperhidrosis Affect Skin Health?
Yes. Constant moisture can contribute to skin irritation, chafing, and breakdown of the skin barrier. In some areas of the body, excessive moisture may also increase the risk of rashes or secondary skin problems.
How Is Hyperhidrosis Treated?
The good news is that hyperhidrosis is treatable, and many people improve significantly with the right plan.
1. Topical treatments
Topical treatment is often the first step. Depending on the body area and your symptoms, this may include:
- prescription-strength antiperspirants
- methenamine cream
2. Oral medication
Some people benefit from oral medication, especially when sweating affects multiple body areas or when topical options are not enough. One common option is glycopyrrolate for hyperhidrosis.
3. Iontophoresis
If topical treatment and oral medication are not enough, iontophoresis may be worth considering, especially for the hands and feet.
What Is the Best Treatment for Hyperhidrosis?
The best treatment depends on where you sweat, how severe the sweating is, and whether you have primary or secondary hyperhidrosis. Some people do well with topical treatment alone, while others need a combination approach.
If you are not sure where to start, explore our hyperhidrosis resources or take our product recommendation quiz.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is hyperhidrosis?
Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition that causes excessive sweating beyond what the body needs to regulate temperature.
How common is hyperhidrosis?
Hyperhidrosis is common and affects millions of people. Estimates vary by study and population, but it is widely recognized as an underdiagnosed condition.
How do I know if I have hyperhidrosis?
You may have hyperhidrosis if you have frequent excessive sweating that interferes with daily life, began earlier in life, tends to stop during sleep, and may run in your family.
What causes hyperhidrosis?
In primary hyperhidrosis, the exact cause is not fully known, but eccrine sweat glands are overactive. Secondary hyperhidrosis can result from medications or underlying medical conditions.
What is the best treatment for hyperhidrosis?
The best treatment depends on the body area involved and symptom severity. Common options include prescription antiperspirants, methenamine cream, glycopyrrolate, and iontophoresis.
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Patients should follow the recommendations of their healthcare provider. If excessive sweating is affecting your daily life, speak with a qualified medical professional about evaluation and treatment options.
