Sweating is a normal part of life. But if you find yourself sweating excessively every day, even when you're not hot or anxious, it might be hyperhidrosis.
Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition that causes excessive sweating beyond what the body needs to stay cool. Affecting an estimated 5% of the global population, it can disrupt daily activities, social life, and self-esteem.
Like with any medical condition, getting the proper diagnosis is key to finding the right treatment. Knowing what type of hyperhidrosis you have can help you and your healthcare provider create a personalized plan.
Let’s start by breaking it down into its two main categories.
By Cause: Primary or Secondary Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis can be classified as either primary or secondary. While both lead to similar symptoms, their causes and treatments are often very different.
Primary hyperhidrosis occurs without an underlying medical cause. It is typically focal, meaning it affects specific areas of the body, such as the hands, feet, underarms, or face. The sweating usually appears on both sides of the body, and happens even when you’re cool and at rest. This type often starts during childhood or adolescence and may have a genetic link.
Treatments for primary hyperhidrosis focus on managing the excessive sweating itself.
Secondary hyperhidrosis, on the other hand, is caused by an underlying medical condition or medication side effect. Unlike primary hyperhidrosis, it usually involves full-body sweating.
Common causes include:
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Endocrine disorders, like hyperthyroidism or diabetes
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Hormonal changes, such as menopause
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Infections or fever, including tuberculosis
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Neurological conditions, like Parkinson’s disease
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Certain medications, including antidepressants
In these cases, addressing the root cause can reduce or eliminate excessive sweating.
By Affected Area: Generalized or Focal Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis can also be categorized by where the sweating occurs on the body.
Generalized hyperhidrosis affects the entire body and is often associated with secondary hyperhidrosis. It may cause night sweats or sudden full-body sweating throughout the day.
Focal hyperhidrosis is limited to specific areas and is almost always primary in nature. The most common focal areas include:
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Palmar hyperhidrosis (hands): This can make everyday tasks difficult, from holding a pen to shaking hands.
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Plantar hyperhidrosis (feet): Often occurs with palmar hyperhidrosis. It can damage shoes, cause blisters, and lead to fungal infections.
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Axillary hyperhidrosis (underarms): Leads to noticeable sweat stains, which can affect clothing choices, confidence, and social interactions.
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Craniofacial hyperhidrosis (scalp, forehead, face): One of the most visible types, often impacting self-esteem and communication.
Focal hyperhidrosis can affect more than one area, also known as multifocal hyperhidrosis.
Solutions for All Types of Hyperhidrosis
The good news is that hyperhidrosis can be managed. Treatment depends on the type and underlying cause.
Secondary Hyperhidrosis: If your sweating is linked to another condition, the first step is to treat the root cause. A complete medical evaluation can help rule out hormonal issues, infections, or neurological conditions.
Generalized Hyperhidrosis: Oral medications, such as anticholinergics, may help reduce overall sweating. However, they can cause side effects and aren’t suitable for everyone.
Focal Hyperhidrosis: For targeted areas, clinical-strength antiperspirants are often the first line of defense. When those aren’t enough, iontophoresis is a safe, non-invasive option for the hands, feet, and underarms.
Iontophoresis works by passing a gentle current through tap water to block the activity of sweat glands temporarily. Devices like Dermadry are designed specifically to treat focal hyperhidrosis at home, offering long-term relief without the need for surgery or medications.
Living with excessive sweating isn’t easy, but you don’t have to deal with it alone. By understanding what type of hyperhidrosis you have, you can take the first step toward treatment and take back control of your life.
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