Sweating is a natural process that every human experiences as part of the body’s cooling-off mechanism. Sweating can also be a side effect of being nervous or afraid. However, when excessive sweating occurs without any reason, such as heat, physical activity, or more, it is termed hyperhidrosis. The condition has no cure, but an early diagnosis can assist in effective treatment. Let’s learn more about the symptoms, types, and self-care practices that can help manage the condition.

Symptoms of hyperhidrosis
Noticeable sweating
People with hyperhidrosis may experience beads of sweat on their skin, or their clothes could be soaked in sweat without performing any physical activity or exertion. Sweating may also occur when the person is lying down or sitting still.

Sweating leads to hindrances in performing daily activities
If a person is having difficulty in undertaking routine activities, including writing, walking, or even turning a doorknob due to excess production of sweat, then they might have hyperhidrosis.

Peeling of skin
If a person is experiencing peeling of skin in certain areas due to skin turning soft because of staying wet for long periods, then it might be an indication of hyperhidrosis.

Prone to skin infections
People prone to frequent skin infections in certain parts of the body that tend to sweat a lot should get themselves tested for hyperhidrosis. Some of the common skin infections as a result of excessive sweating are jock itch and Athlete’s foot.

Different forms of hyperhidrosis
Primary focal hyperhidrosis
The occurrence of this form of disease starts during childhood or adolescence. People suffering from this disease do not have any other health condition. Patients suffering from this form may sweat from:

A certain area or specific areas of the body: Many people may sweat excessively from one or specific parts of the body. These parts may include the hand, feet, forehead, or underarms.

On both sides of the body: If a person is experiencing excessive sweating on both sides of the body, such as both underarms, it might be a possible symptom of primary hyperhidrosis.

After waking up: If a person is experiencing sweating just after waking up and has damp sheets or wet clothing, they might have primary hyperhidrosis.

At least once a week: People who experience excessive sweating more often might have primary hyperhidrosis.

Secondary hyperhidrosis
This condition occurs due to an underlying cause, such as a health issue or side effects occurring as a result of any supplement or a prescribed product. Furthermore, medical conditions that can lead to excessive sweating are:
Diabetes mellitus
Menopause
Thyrotoxicosis
Neurological problems
Spinal cord injury
Gout
Certain cancers

Treatment of hyperhidrosis
Use of antiperspirants
The first treatment people with hyperhidrosis can try is antiperspirants, as they temporarily stop the sweat glands from functioning. However, it is important to note that high-strength antiperspirants may cause a burning sensation or itching on the skin if not utilized correctly, so wiping it off as soon as one wakes up in the morning will prove to be effective.

Opt for sweat-friendly clothes
People with hyperhidrosis might have to change their clothes several times a day. Opting for cotton clothes that are soft and breathable can aid in keeping the skin dry. Also, for sweaty feet, opting for socks crafted from natural or acrylic fiber proves effective.

Laser therapy
People who have hyperhidrosis can also try laser treatments to cease sweating. The treatment takes less than an hour and utilizes lasers to focus and destroy sweat glands in the underarms through tiny incisions.

Iontophoresis
This treatment has existed for a long time and involves using an iontophoresis device that generates low-voltage current. These machines are known to temporarily stop sweat glands from functioning. The treatment involves putting the hands and feet in a shallow pan through which a low-voltage current is passed. For different parts of the body requiring treatment, patches are also used, which are connected to the machine. The treatment offers long-term benefits, and the possible side effects can be skin irritation or discomfort while undergoing treatment.

MiraDry
This treatment is directed exclusively at the underarms and utilizes a handheld device to provide microwave energy on the skin where sweat glands are present such as the underarms. The heat produced by the device removes or destroys the sweat gland. The treatment is known to give immediate results. However, people not getting effective results can opt for this procedure a second or third time, depending upon their requirements.

If one does experience hyperhidrosis, it is advisable to consult a healthcare expert to determine the underlying cause and the best course of treatment at the earliest.