THEhyperhidrosis, Greek hydros which means sweat, refers to the excessive production of sweat. On the basis of what criterion can we qualify the sweat “Excessive”? While excess sweat is evident in fever or hot flashes, it is more difficult to pinpoint when it is not associated with a particular disease or condition. One can consider hyperhidrosis as any bothersome sweating difficult to control by the use of antiperspirants.

De 1% to 3% of the population suffer from hyperhidrosis. Because it is a taboo subject, few people dare to see a doctor. However, there are ways to better control the production of sweat.

Types

Most of the time, thehyperhidrosis is not related to any other health problem. It is then a question ofhyperhidrosis primary ou essential. Primary hyperhidrosis can be localized ou widespread:

• Localized. Only certain areas of the body produce more sweat. The palms of the hands and feet are most often affected, usually at the same time. The armpits can also be the target, alone or with the hands and feet. More rarely, the excessive sweating can touch face and scalp, in isolation;
• Generalized. Sweat emanates excessively from all over the body.

Sometimes a health problem or other specific reason causes profuse sweating. In this case, hyperhidrosis is said secondary. An infection, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, hypoglycemia or menopause, with its typical hot flashes, can be the cause, for example. Exposure to a biochemical agent can also cause secondary hyperhidrosis (such as organophosphates already used as a chemical weapon in times of war or in terrorist attacks). In these cases, it is necessary to address the cause to treat hyperhidrosis. This fact sheet focuses on hyperhidrosis related to no other disease.

Causes

La excessive sweating usually starts at the puberty. It mainly manifests itself in people who experience social discomfort, flushing, heart palpitations, etc. It occurs during the day, never at night.

During physical exertion or when it is hot, the body produces more sweat, under the control of a gland named hypothalamus (see box below). In case of’hyperhidrosis, two phenomena could occur. This is, at least, what has been observed in cases of hyperhidrosis linked to anxiety or stress experienced in society.⁴. First there would be a hyperfunction of the usual circuit initiated by the hypothalamus. In addition, other nervous circuits controlled by the anterior cingulate cortex would be involved. This region of the brain plays an important role in controlling emotions and adapting to various situations.

Possible consequences

Depending on its extent, hyperhidrosis can be difficult to experience. It can constantly preoccupy the mind and cause a discomfort important in public (sweaty hands, smells, soaked clothes, etc.). The person then finds himself in a vicious circle, since the sweat itself is experienced in an embarrassing way, and the discomfort triggers the sweating. In a study, it has been shown that about one in four people who suffer from social phobia have hyperhidrosis which itself tends to worsen this phobia.⁵.

In terms of physiological consequences, people with hyperhidrosis are obviously more at risk of Dehydration. In addition, sweating makes the skin more sensitive to various conditions, such as heat rash, athlete’s foot, onychomycosis and warts.

When to consult?

THEhyperhidrosis is a chronic problem. Seek medical attention at the appropriate time in case of excessive sweating which undermines quality of life.

However, in case of sudden unexplained hyperhidrosis, hyperhidrosis accompanied by weight loss or which occurs mainly at night, it is better to consult a doctor without delay.