- Types of hyperhidrosis
- Primary hyperhidrosis (also called focal)
- Secondary hyperhidrosis (also called general hyperhidrosis)
- Treatments
- References
Most people whose hands sweat excessively do not have a health problem, although it is uncomfortable and can affect personal and social life. This problem has a name, it is called palmar hyperhidrosis and it is estimated that 2-3% of the population suffers from it.
The fact is that all people sweat, but if you do, you will have observed that it reaches the point that literally sweat drips. Normally the sweat glands produce sweat to cool the body temperature, however, in this case they continue to work, even in cold weather, without exercising or even in the pool.
This condition often begins at puberty and can be triggered by different factors such as diabetes, stress, anxiety, alcohol, hormones, drugs, spicy foods… Although the exact cause is not known, it is believed that 50% of cases are due to genetics (triggered and amplified by the factors I have named).
In most cases, excessive sweating does not pose a threat, although in others it may be due to a medical condition for which it is advisable to visit the doctor.
In some rare cases, hyperhidrosis began after physical injury, near the chest cavity or by electrocution.
Types of hyperhidrosis
Primary hyperhidrosis (also called focal)
It causes excessive sweating of the hands, forearms, face and feet for no apparent reason. Within this group is palmar hyperhidrosis.
Secondary hyperhidrosis (also called general hyperhidrosis)
It causes excessive sweating all over the body or over a wide area of the body and is due to a medical condition or medication.
The International Hyperhidrosis Society divides the severity of palmar hyperhidrosis into 4 subgroups:
- Group 1 has mild sweating, which does not cause social or functional problems.
- Group 4 has excessive sweating that affects their daily life.
Treatments
The good news is that there are currently various treatments, both generally (other parts of the body such as armpits, back, feet…) and particularly in the hands.
- Antiperspirants with aluminum chloride: they are deodorants that inhibit the sweat glands although it is more effective in axillary hyperhidrosis.
-Control anxiety / stress: in these cases you can treat them with relaxation techniques or treating the causes of them.
- Iontophoresis: it is a treatment available in some clinics and hospitals. It normally requires two weekly sessions for 8-10 weeks and is not a permanent cure.
- Injections of botulinum toxin: although it is temporary (injections must be done every so often), it reduces the sweating of the palms for about 6 months. Then more injections are necessary. It is the last recommended treatment as some people have reported feeling weak a few days after the injections.
- Sympathectomy: it is an operation performed under general anesthesia and that can stop palmar sweating.
How does this problem affect you? Have you already made a decision? Comment below. I'm interested! Thank you.
References
- Cedars-Sinai. "Palmar Hyperhidrosis." 2010. (Sept. 20, 2010).
- Keck School of Medicine of University of Southern California. Hyperhidrosis. March 27, 2003.
- Schlereth, Tanja et al. "Hyperhidrosis - Causes and Treatment of Enhanced Sweating." Deutsches Ärzteblatt International. Jan. 16, 2009. (Sept. 20, 2010)
- The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Hyperhidrosis. Feb. 19, 2010. (Sept. 20, 2010)