Excessive Sweating (Hyperhidrosis) – Definition, Causes and Possible Solutions

Hyperhidrosis is the medical term for excessive sweating. It affects up to 4% of the entire population, but not all patients ask for medical advice. Excessive sweating is not necessarily dangerous,  and it can often be solved with appropriate treatment.

Causes of Hyperhidrosis

In some cases the reason behind hyperhidrosis remain unknown. However, there are some factors that have been linked with the occurrence of excessive sweating:

• Genetic predispositions.
• Anxiety disorder or irritability.
• Malfunctioning of the spinal cord.
• Unhealthy eating habits and consumption of caffeine, alcohol and nicotine on a regular basis.
• Increased body weight or obesity.
• Underlying medical conditions like autoimmune disorders, thyroid problems diabetes.
• Allergic reactions to foods.

Two Forms of Hyperhidrosis

From a medical point of view, there are two forms of hyperhidrosis: Primary and Secondary.

• Primary Hyperhidrosis – medical specialists believe that it is caused by a malfunctioning or over stimulation of the Autonomous Nervous System, which results in excessive sweating in certain body parts such as the armpits or palms.
• Secondary Hyperhidrosis – excess sweat occurs as a result of another underlying medical condition (for example: diabetes, neurological problems, hormonal imbalances, etc). This form of hyperhidrosis could affect the entire body.

It is extremely important to consult with your medical practitioner.

POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS FOR HYPERHIDROSIS

Lifestyle changes

• Improve your diet -  you should not consume the foods that are known to cause excessive sweating. It seems that spicy foods, beef, garlic and spicy curry, coffee and green tea (anything with caffeine) seems to trigger excessive perspiration in most people. It is also believed that trans fats could also be a factor. Generally speaking, there aren’t any foods that can reduce hyperhidrosis, but it is an ideal first step to avoid those mentioned above.
• Increase water intake -  6 to 8 glasses of water are recommended daily. This is vital because water intake regulates body temperature and flushes away toxins.
• Avoid tight clothes – Loose clothes will allow the air to circulate and to cool the skin. This is very important, especially for excess armpit sweat.  In the absence of proper ventilation, your body will heat faster and will produce more sweat. Tight clothes can also cause more discomfort and thus even more sweating.
• Learn how to cope with stressful situations – Many people have the tendency to sweat more when they are exposed to stress or when they find themselves in tense situations. Relaxation techniques, including breathing techniques and yoga, and positive thinking could help in managing such situations more effectively.

Drugs and Medical Procedures

• Over the counter antiperspirants – this is the first treatment options in all hyperhidrosis cases. Doctors usually recommend clinical strength antiperspirants for being applied on the most problematic areas. The most effective products include Secret Clinical Strength, 5 Day, Certain Dri and Degree Clinical Protection.
• Prescription antiperspirants – these are usually recommended when over the counter ones don’t work. They contain aluminum chloride and they have to be applied on the skin in the evening. It is important to clean the skin after approximately eight hours because prescription antiperspirants can have side effects like irritated skin, swelling or itchiness.
• Iontophoresis – this is a medical procedure involving low electric charges targeted towards the areas affected by excessive sweating. It is done using a device supplied with electricity and water saturated wool pads which conduct the electric impulses. The purpose of iontophoresis is to modify the structure of the skin so that it doesn’t allow the sweat to come out anymore. Although there are not known safe effects, the efficiency of Iontophoresis is still under debate.
• Oral medication – excessive sweating can sometimes be reduced by anticholrigenics administration. These impair the nervous activity and prevent nerves from sending signals to sweat glands. Sweat can be inhibited with carbonic anhydrase inhibitors and the activity of the nerves can be decreases with clonidine.
• Botox injections – injecting botox in the nerves that control the sweat glands will temporarily “paralyze” them. Up to twenty injections containing a small botox amount might be needed. Doctors first run some tests in order to determine exactly where the botulinum toxin should go. In order to minimize the pain that sufferers might feel during the procedure, local anesthesia can be used. The area can be numbed by taking oral anesthetics, intravenous ones or by applying local creams.
• Surgery – this option is normally reserved for persons who experience severe hyperhidrosis and who have failed in controlling it with any other method. There are two ways of surgically solving the problem of excessive sweating. One involves “cutting off” the connection between the sweat glands and the nerves that send them signals and the other one implies taking out some sweat glands. The first option prevents hyperhidrosis because, even though the sweat glands remain in their place, they don’t receive any nervous impulses anymore and they are inactive. The sympathetic nerve can be either clipped or partially removed. A newer procedure called sympathotomy can also be used. It implies cutting off nervous impulses without taking out the nerve. This newer procedure is considered safer because the risk of excessively sweating in other body parts is reduced. Regardless of the type of procedure that is performed, surgery is serious and potentially risk. It is important to discuss all the possibilities with a good medical professional.

Natural and Herbal Remedies

• Sage (Salvia Officinalis) - belonging to the Lamiaceae family, Sage has numerous medical properties including the ability to fight bacterial or fungal infections and the ability to reduce blood sugar. It is also an anhidrotic, a toner and an antispasmodic agent. It is believed that sage can keep the sweat function of the body under control.
• Chinese Peony Root or White Peony Root – belonging to the Paeoniaceae family, it can be useful in spontaneous and night sweating. It could be used together with cinnamon, or accompanied by arborvitae seeds.
• Astragalus – belonging to the Fabaceae family, Astragalus can either increase or decrease the sweat production, as needed.
• Apple Cider Vinegar and Honey – Taking a mixture made of two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar and an equal amount of honey, has also been beneficial for some people.  This is best taken first thing in the morning.

Antiperspirants

Naturally, the first thought that comes to people’s mind when experiencing hyperhidrosis is to buy antiperspirants. These are available in different strengths and most are all based on the same ingredient: aluminum chloride. Antiperspirants should not be mistaken with deodorants. Deodorants do not reduce sweat production in any way, but just mask the odor.

Aluminum chloride

This active ingrediant is used in most supermarket and clinical grade antiperspirants.  The concentration of the solution can be gradually decreased until it reaches 1%. At that point, using it only once a week should be enough. Aluminum chloride works because it blocks the sweat glands. It should not be used on recently shaved or irritated skin.

Yoga breathing exercises (pranayama) are one of the easiest things you can do to reduce stress. They help both your body and mind to cope with demanding situations. It is obvious for everybody that life is impossible without breathing. While men might hang on without food or water, they simply can’t resit more than several minutes without oxygen. However, few people realize the importance of correct breathing and the difference this can make concerning their health and the way they feel.

Think about how you breathe most of the time. You probably do it in a shallow, rapid and agitated manner, without paying any attention to this process. Breathing correctly on the other hand can provide the vital oxygen to all your body organs and to your brain, ensuring physical and mental health. Alternatively, the carbon dioxide is being eliminated.

Yoga breathing exercises relieve anxiety and pressure. Some of them are easy enough for you to practice at work. The results are going to be visible immediately: you will feel more relaxed and capable of facing another challenging day.

Like it is the case with all yoga exercises, breathing ones also demand you to connect with your body and to listen to it. Here are three examples of easy yoga breathing exercises that can be done right on your office chair.

• Counted Breath – sit comfortably, with your hands on your thighs, your feet on the floor and your eyes closed. Inhale slowly while you count to four and then exhale, counting to four again. Do this through your nostrils and repeat the exercise for three to five times. Open your eyes, but maintain your position and enjoy your new found relaxation for a few minutes before you get started with your work.

• Deep Yogic Breathing – if you can’t lie down, sit comfortably on a chair with your spine straight and your feet on the floor. Before you start breathing, put your right hand on your belly and your left one on your chest. While inhaling through your nostrils focus on both your hands and send your breath from the right one to the left one. Look at how your hands raise when you inhale and go down when you exhale. Do this three to five times and try to breathe deeper each time.

• Alternate Nostril Breathing – get familiar with Vishnu Mudra because you have to place your right hand in this position while you put the left one on your thigh. Vishnu Mudra implies folding your index and middle finger in your palm and extending the thumb, the ring finger and the little finger. Use the thumb for closing your right nostril and inhale through your left one until you count to four. Then close this one also with the ring and the little finger and release the right nostril. Use it for exhaling until you count to eight and then to inhale again until you count to four. Repeat the procedure in order to have your left nostril open and exhale through it until you count to eight. Do so up to ten times.

Take your time to breathe correctly and to practice at least one exercise during a working day. You will start noticing the improvements right away.

Most of the actions performed by the autonomous nervous system are performed without the involvement of the conscious mind. However, some of them, like breathing, are done consciously. If the autonomous nervous system stops working at its best parameters, lots of problems and medical conditions might occur (heart problems, respiratory problems, circulatory disorders and various other medical conditions arising from the fact that unconscious body functions are not performed right).

The autonomous nervous system is also split into two sub-systems: the parasympathetic nervous system and the sympathetic nervous system. Their functions are complementary. While the first one reacts when there is no need of immediate action, the second one is responsible with quick “decisions”. Otherwise said, the functions of the two subsystems modulate unconscious activities in the body.

It is necessary to determine the underlying cause.  Therefore, it is important to consult with your medical practitioner.

Primary hyperhidrosis typically affects the hands, armpits, and body.

Some people for instance sweat a lot while working out at the gym. This is not very uncommon or bothering. On the other hand, there are people who sweat when they simply sit down without doing anything or when they walk without any hurry. Constantly living in fear and having to hide sweat patches is nothing pleasant. Excessive sweating might gradually take control of your life. There won’t be a single moment in which you will not think about your problem because you will be scared that it might occur in the worst possible moments. Something definitely needs to be done and the best starting point is to identify the causes of excessive sweating in your exact case. As said, what applies to one person might not apply to another one.

Excessive sweating is actually a medical condition known as hyperhidrosis. It affects a pretty significant number of people. However, all people must make the difference between hyperhidrosis and normal sweating. The latter one is a natural and indispensable function of the body which acts like a cooling mechanism. It activates when the body temperatures gets to high. Sweat glands are triggered by the nervous system, but it is also true that some people have numerous and more active sweat glands than others. There can be many factors that determine excessive sweating even in times when the body does not need to be cooled off. If the sweat glands are over active and perspiration is highly visible, there is definitely something wrong. In numerous cases excessive sweating is strongly related with increased levels of stressed or anxiety or with physical activity. However, this might not be applicable to all sufferers.

Identifying the cause of excessive sweating is indeed helpful because if it’s eliminated, the problem is solved. However, this is sometimes doable only in theory. Even though it might seem embarrassing to discuss the problem with a doctor, he or she might offer a pertinent and safe solution. At first, the doctor will probably recommend prescription strength antiperspirants like Anhydrol Forte or Driclor. They are based on aluminum chloride, a substance which inhibits the activity of the sweat glands. If they are of no help, it means that hyperhidrosis is pretty severe. Botox injections are another option. They simply stop the nerves from sending signals to the sweat glands. In case these don’t work either, the doctor might suggest a surgical procedure known as endoscopic transthoracic sympathectomy. This stops the nervous activity concerning sweat glands for good. It might sound good for people facing hyperhidrosis daily, but it is a serious procedure that also involves risks and can cause complications. The decision to undergo it needs to be discussed with a professional.

However, sweating is normal in both men and women. It is nothing uncommon to sweat in a hot summer day, but it is a problem if this function can’t be controlled anymore. When it’s hot, the sweat glands are activated by the signals sent by nerves.  They release sweat and this penetrates skin. When it evaporates, the body temperature goes down. More than that, sweat is also a way of eliminating toxins form the body. This is true for both men and women. As long as the amount of sweat is not bothering, there is absolutely no problem. Sweat in itself does not even smell bad. The odor only appears when sweat, made up of water and electrolytes, enters in contact with bacteria on the skin.

Even though women are just as likely as men to experience excessive sweating, it looks like the problem is more serious in their case. This is because sweating in men is socially acceptable, but a lady dripping with sweat is not at all a pleasant view. These are indeed stereotypes, but they can add to the frustration women experience when sweating excessively.

Causes of excessive sweating in women might differ from those in men. Here are some examples:

• Hormonal changes in early pregnancy – sweating can be triggered by abnormal hormonal levels that can occur when carrying a baby.
• Menopause – this is also a time in a woman’s life when she faces important hormonal changes. Excessive sweating is, in this case, accompanied by hot flashes and other specific symptoms.
• Malfunctioning of the vascular motor system.
• Thyroid problems – this gland produces hormones which regulate the signals that the brain sends to the nerves. Problems with it are easily diagnosed through blood tests.
• Heart disease – if excessive sweating is accompanied by chest pain and difficulty in breathing it might signalize that something is wrong with the heart.
• Other underlying medical conditions – women who have such suspicions should ask for the opinion of their doctors. Before their appointment they should be prepared to answer some questions which might help the doctor find out what’s wrong. Lifestyle aspects like smoking, consuming alcohol or caffeine might influence sweating. Certain prescribed or over the counter pills can have the same effect, as well as nutritional habits.

There are ways for women to cope with excessive sweating. Some of them involve simple changes in lifestyle and diet and others are more invasive. However, they are similar with options that men have:

• Avoid alcohol, nicotine, caffeine and other toxins.
• Increase the intake of fresh fruits and vegetables because they reduce the toxins in the body. Restrict the consumption of processed and refined foods.
• Move on to more complex solutions after you have experienced a healthier and more balanced lifestyle and see how this works for you.
• Try over the counter deodorants or antiperspirants. The first ones simply smell nice while the second ones actually block the sweating from occurring. If these don’t work, try prescription strength antiperspirants. These contain an ingredient named aluminum chloride which simply stops the sweat glands from working. It might have an irritating effect on the skin, so it is not appropriate for everybody.
• Botox injections are a more invasive, expensive and painful treatment. Injecting Botox into the hyperactive sweat glands will stop them from working for about half a year. Repeated treatment sessions are needed.
• In severe cases of excessive sweating the doctor might recommend the surgical removal of the sweat glands. This is a serious decision that should not be taken lightly.

Many people wonder just how normal sweat is and how much they should sweat. Actually, sweating is absolutely normal up to some extent and vital for the human body. It is a natural mechanism through which the body prevents its temperature from going too high. When it overheats, sweat is produced and when this evaporates from the skin, the body temperature goes down. Otherwise said, not sweating at all would be dangerous. Sweat is produced by glands that are located on the entire body. Even though there are several million sweat glands, those in the armpits, the feet and the hands are more active than the others. This is why people complaining of excessive sweating usually have problems in these areas. Amazingly, men have fewer sweat glands than women. They indeed sweat more, but this happens because their glands are more active.

It is difficult to establish exactly what normal sweating means. This can vary from individual to individual and it also depends on external factors. It is perfectly normal to sweat in a very hot room or during a hot summer day. People also sweat when they engage in physical activities. Hot and spicy foods are known triggers for the sweat gland. Sweating is a defense mechanism the body uses when having a fever in order to decrease the temperature. Up to some extent, it is normal to also sweat a little when feeling nervous or anxious about something. However, this is where things get tricky. It is not normal to start sweating excessively each time you are nervous or before any important even or meeting. This is embarrassing and discomforting and goes beyond the limits of normal sweating.

People experiencing excessive sweating are very preoccupied about finding a solution for their problem. They are usually convinced that sweating controls their life. It might seem difficult, but this should be avoided by all means. Otherwise, sufferers won’t be able to focus on nothing else than their sweating problem. They won’t even be able to enjoy pleasant moments in their lives because they will be too scared that sweating will ruin them. When sweating excessively, people are usually very self-conscious about what’s going on and this leads to even more anxiety and sweating.

Fortunately, there are methods of ending excessive sweating and of preventing it from taking control over your life. It might be time consuming to find them because what works for an individual might be ineffective for others. There might be times when you will feel discouraged, but you need to keep looking for solutions that work. There might also be times when you will feel trapped because anxiety and excessive sweating form a vicious circle than needs to be broken. It is important not to give up.

Most people who complain about excessive sweating experience one of the following forms:

• Sweaty hands – they are very frustrating because they usually occur when you are nervous about something. Sweaty hands hit in the worst possible moments: when going to a job interview, when meeting someone important or when having a date. They don’t help in making a good impression, but there are some tricks that might be useful. Washing the hands right before the big meeting (or any other event triggering nervousness) might help. Some people choose to have some talcum powder with them at all times. They simply rub a small amount in their palms in order for it to absorb the excessive sweat.
• Underarm sweating – this is probably the worst of all excessive sweating forms. It is highly visible because it stains the clothes. It is hard to cope with underarm sweating. However, some people have found solutions. You can either keep a small size deodorant with you at all times or you can frequently go to the bathroom and wipe the excessive sweat with a paper towel. The last option is pretty risky because, if you are not careful, you can soak your clothes completely. The solution involving the deodorant has higher chances to work, but you need to maintain a proper hygiene. Otherwise, bacteria might accumulate and cause bad odor which can’t be removed by the deodorant.
• Sweaty feet – fortunately, this problem is not as visible as the others. It is just discomforting and it only becomes noticeable for others if you take your shoes off. Putting talcum powder in the socks or in the shoes can help. Shoes with ventilation are also a good idea. Instead of wearing boots, for instance, you can try snickers with special holes that let the air circulate. During summer time, sandals are the best option. They will allow your feet to breath and the sweat to evaporate.

All people sweat and this is normal up to a point. Unfortunately, some sweat more than others and they feel embarrassed by their problem. People also sweat more when it is hot or when they are nervous for one reason or another. The surest way to put an end to their sweating problem is to find a way to reduce their anxiety levels. They need to control their feelings before important meetings and events in their lives. As long as they are able to do so, the problem of excessive sweating will not bother them anymore.

There are numerous factors that can contribute to excessive sweating in a person. In some people, the condition might only be a symptom of mental disorders or ADHD. In others it is strongly connected with the levels of stress and anxiety they experience. Amazingly enough, but some lifestyle aspects like smoking or consuming high amounts of caffeine can also interfere with the activity of the sweat glands. Excessive sweating can affect mostly any body part, but it is more common in the armpits, on hand and feet. It seems that the condition usually occurs in teenagers or in people up to 25 years.

Excessive sweating is not a problem that can’t be solved. However, finding the right solution might take some time and might involve some lifestyle changes. Some tips can be put in practice and can at least reduce the sweating, if not stop it completely.

• Wear clothes made of natural fabrics like wool, cotton or silk. They will allow air to circulate and prevent sweating.
• Try to keep yourself in a good overall condition. This is good for numerous points of view, but it also helps in excessive sweating.
• Avoid tensed or stressful situations. Learn some relaxation techniques and use them when you are likely to become anxious or stressed. They will help you calm down and stop sweating.
• Deodorants don’t block sweating, but help in preventing the unpleasant smell that sometimes accompanies it. They are a “quick fix” rather than a solution, but they might get you out of trouble in some situations.
• Use over the counter antiperspirants, especially for the armpits area. They are usually strong enough to keep you safe from one shower to another.
• If over the counter products don’t seem to be of any help in your cases, explore prescription strength ones. However, don’t use any medicines that block sweating without discussing your options with a doctor. Most products prescribed for excessive sweating contain aluminum chloride. This is a great sweat block, but don’t use it without medical advice.
• In case excessive sweating is caused by emotional problems like anxiety or depression, start by getting medical attention for them. Once your emotional problems are kept under control, you will also notice that excessive sweating does not bother you anymore.
• Avoid spicy foods because they make you sweat even more.
• Maintain a good hygiene. Shower often and also shave the hair in your armpits. This will keep bacteria away and will prevent the bad odor.
• Some people have found relief from sweating by consuming watermelon on a daily basis, in the morning.
• A week cure with tomato juice has proven helpful in others. Have a mug each day.
• Use talcum powder to absorb the excessive sweating.
• Avoid direct exposure to sun or heat by using a hat, an umbrella or a fan (if indoors).