Hyperhidrosis is the medical name given to the condition of excessive sweating. Sweating is a normal and totally natural process through which the body loses heat. However, some people suffer from excessive sweating, which is also known as hyperhidrosis. To some its a minor annoyance. But for those who suffer from excessive sweating its a serious consideration that can affect daily life,relationship and careers. Many people, even some doctors dont understand the problem and dismiss the symptoms as merely troublesome.
Hyperhidrosis is a genetic condition that affects mostly the hands, feet or underarms. Everyone sweats to some extent. This is an important process to help the body to control its temperature and hydrate the skin. In Hyperhidrosis the brain over stimulates the glands that are responsible for sweating. It is common for it to run in families and up to one third of people have another member of the family affected.
It affects 3-5% of the population or in other words 1 in 20 people suffer from severe hyperhidrosis which usually starts during the teens and twenties. Moderate hyperhidrosis is more common and the majority of people suffer from this at some point in their lives.
Hyperhidrosis affects men and women, all races and every age group.
Excessive sweating can occur at any time, while you are in a cold room, while you are calm, restful and without any stress or anxiety.
Most sufferers find the problem distressing and this may worsen their condition.
However, many things can trigger normal sweating and this is also true for hyperhidrosis it is just the amount of sweating that varies.
What triggers Hyperhidrosis?
Exercise. Heat or cold. Alcohol, coffee or tea, smoking, hot or spicy food. Stress, anxiety or strong emotions. Certain times of the day.
What problems does Hyperhidrosis cause?
Those who are plagued with HYPERHIDROSIS are always reluctant to interact fullyin social and business settings, never knowing when they will experience the embarrassment of profuse sweating. Peolple who experience Hyperhidrosis are reluctant to share a hug, to dance, to play cards, to get close. Even something as simple as a handshake can be embarrassing. Other problems include....
The need to wash more frequently. Changing wet clothes several times a day. Embarrassment at work or social situations. Lack of confidence.
Types of Hyperhidrosis?
FOCAL(LOCAL) HYPERHIDROSIS This is the most common form which affects the areas such as the scalp, face, hands, trunk and thigh, feet and in about 30-40% of cases, the armpits (axillary).
GENERALISED HYPERHIDROSIS This is usually caused by an underlying medical conditions such as overactive thyroid gland, medications and neurological diseases and causes excessive sweating of the entire body. Sweating usually stops when the illness is treated.
How do i know if i have Hyperhidrosis?
A new Hyperhidrosis severity scale can be the first step to managing your condition. If you score yourself a"2" or higher there are treatment options to get you to a score of "1" so that you no longer have to suffer this medical condition.
My sweating is never noticed and never interferes with activities
1
My sweating is tolerable and sometimes interferes with activities
2
My sweating is bearly tolerable and frequently interferes with activities
3
My sweating is intolerable and always interferes with activities
