Sweating is a natural reaction of the body during exercise or stress. It is also a response to higher ambient temperatures and hormonal changes in the body. It is an important bodily function to regulate internal temperature. The body cools itself by sweating. Sweating is a protective reaction of the skin, but sometimes, for reasons that are not well known, it only increases in certain areas of the body. The most common problem is increased sweating in the armpits, soles or palms of the hands, especially during stress or exercise.
However, if sweating is very profuse and occurs without a cause, it is considered a pathology. This condition is called hyperhidrosis. Increased sweating or hyperhidrosis is one of the oldest known health problems in dermatology. Hyperhidrosis is not only a physiological disease but also a psychological problem. Profuse sweating causes people a great sense of discomfort. People become complex when their backs, palms, face sweat, because of the unpleasant smell and sweat stains on their clothes. All this causes people constant anxiety, fear and lack of self-confidence.
Symptoms and causes of hyperhidrosis
- Sweating interferes with daily activities;
- Sweating causes anxiety;
- Sometimes sweating for no reason;
- Night sweats.
Hyperhidrosis also causes skin eruptions which can lead to various skin infections. Rashes usually occur under the breasts or in the groin area and sometimes treatment of the lump may be necessary.
Hyperhidrosis is classified according to the cause:
- Primary hyperhidrosis, which is subdivided into focal (manifested by increased sweating of the palms, feet, armpits) and full-body. It usually develops during childhood or adolescence. The primary causes of hyperhidrosis are not clear.
- Secondary hyperhidrosis associated with any health problem or condition (menopause, thyroid disease, diabetes mellitus, malignancy, etc.)
Common causes of profuse sweating include:
- Tension. Often, profuse sweating is caused by severely increased nervous tension and changes in the sympathetic nervous system.
- Diseases such as diabetes, thyroid disease, infectious diseases, endocrine diseases and neurological diseases can be the cause of increased sweating.
- Increased physical exertion.
- Overweight.
- Men’s sweat glands are more active than women’s.
- Menopause or premenstrual syndrome.
- Use of antibiotics, other drugs (antidepressants).
- Heavy use of hot liquids, alcohol.
- Night sweats may be a symptom of lung cancer, blood, thyroid or other diseases.
- Endocrine development (adolescents). Sweat gland activity is particularly active during puberty
- Deficiency of vitamin D, calcium, magnesium and B vitamin complex.
Perspiring profusely, the skin loses its protective lipid layer, making it susceptible to infections. The skin on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet is particularly susceptible. Therefore, it is necessary to treat profuse sweating. Heavy sweating is often a major social problem for both the patient and those around him/her, as it often not only disturbs patients but also socially isolates them. However, sweating disorders have recently been diagnosed more frequently and the number of treatment options for excessive sweating is increasing.
Ways to treat profuse sweating
- Botulinum toxin injections. This is one of the most effective treatments for profuse sweating. The effect lasts 6-12 months after the procedure.
- Iontophoresis. The treatment uses special equipment that generates a low-voltage electric current, thus inhibiting the activity of the sweat glands. The treatment is most suitable if the palms and soles of the feet sweat profusely. It is quick, painless and safe. It needs to be repeated for a lasting effect.
- Aluminium-based antiperspirants. Antiperspirants work by blocking the sweat glands so they stop producing sweat. Antiperspirants containing aluminium chloride are effective because they inhibit perspiration itself and slow down the growth of bacteria. It is the most popular treatment for underarm sweating. These antiperspirants can also be applied to other areas that sweat profusely, such as the palms of the hands and feet. It is recommended to use aluminium-based products in the evening on dry skin and wash them off in the morning. Continue the treatment until a positive effect is observed. Generally, heavy sweating is reduced within 1 week. However, such sweating remedies should not be abused.
- In rare cases, surgical treatment of sweating is suggested. This treatment may be offered in the case of persistent sweating that does not respond to other treatments. Surgical sweating reduction is considerably more expensive than other treatments and may cause adverse effects that may impair quality of life.
- Laser treatment of sweating.
- Prescription of drugs containing atropine. However, oral medication is often not recommended as it can cause many side effects.
- When sweating is caused by persistent stress, beta-blockers (propranolol) may be useful.
- Natural remedies for hyperhidrosis. This may include the use of herbs (chamomile, valerian root, St John’s wort). Acupuncture and hypnosis may also be used.
It is important to note that all of these treatments are aimed at reducing symptoms (i.e. sweating), but not at treating hyperhidrosis itself.
How can I prevent profuse sweating?
- You should choose linen and cotton clothes, leather shoes and cotton and semi-cotton socks.
- Limit spicy, fatty and salty foods. As the body processes and digests hot, spicy food, the heart rate increases, causing a rise in body temperature and more sweating.
- Drink adequate amounts of water.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
- Do not smoke.
- Practice yoga, meditation and other relaxation techniques.
