Hyperhidrosis: Causes and Common Treatments
Hyperhidrosis is the condition in which a person sweats abnormally. The sweating might not be related to change in temperature or exercise, and it can often become a cause of embarrassment and anxiety.
Let us have a look at some of the causes of hyperhidrosis and how to treat the condition.
Causes of primary hyperhidrosis
People suffering from primary hyperhidrosis are always sweating. They sweat from a specific type of sweat gland, which is known as eccrine sweat glands. These are the main sweat glands of the body. These sweat glands are mostly present on the palms, feet, face, and armpits.
The sweat glands are activated while doing rigorous physical exercise, or feeling a rush of emotions. Hyperhidrosis is the condition wherein the nerves overreact. For example, people sometimes only have to recall a moment of anxiety to start sweating profusely.
While the exact causes of primary hyperhidrosis are not known, it is probable that the condition is hereditary. Most people who are suffering from primary hyperhidrosis have observed that the condition has been persistent since childhood.
Causes of secondary hyperhidrosis
The less common secondary hyperhidrosis occurs when a person already has a medical condition and hyperhidrosis is related to it. The causes of hyperhidrosis, in this case, are simpler to suggest than in the case of primary hyperhidrosis. Some common conditions leading to secondary hyperhidrosis include certain infections, nervous system disorders, heart attack, specific forms of cancer, low blood sugar, thyroid problems, menopause hot flashes, and diabetes.
In addition to this, opioid withdrawal can lead to secondary hyperhidrosis. Also, some medications can further lead to this condition. The best practice is to consult the doctor as soon as you notice the signs of excessive sweating, as not reacting in such cases is not the best solution. This is because there are certain further complications that can arise out of hyperhidrosis, like skin infections as well as the social and emotional effects of the condition.
Here are some common treatments of hyperhidrosis.
Specialized antiperspirant
An antiperspirant containing aluminum chloride can be prescribed by the doctor for the treatment of mild cases of hyperhidrosis. An antiperspirant containing aluminum chloride is often stronger than medications available over the counter.
Anticholinergic drugs
This particular category of drugs provides relief for sweating in general. These include certain drugs such as glycopyrrolate (Robinul), which prevents the functioning of acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is the name of the chemical produced in the body that is responsible for stimulating the sweat glands.
Home remedies
There are certain effective home remedies like changing socks frequently, using over-the-counter antiperspirants on the impacted areas, and bathing regularly that can help ease hyperhidrosis.