Around the world, an estimated 365 million people suffer from hyperhidrosis. Hyperhidrosis is a condition that causes a person to sweat excessively for no apparent reason. Do you know how to tell if you have hyperhidrosis? [1]

A person without hyperhidrosis will sweat in reaction to environmental stimuli in order to regulate their body’s temperature. However, for people who have hyperhidrosis the underlying genetic (Primary Hyperhidrosis) or medical (Secondary Hyperhidrosis) circumstances that cause hyperhidrosis cause them to create an excessive amount of sweat. In most cases hyperhidrosis is not bad for your health, but symptoms can range in severity from simply uncomfortable to medically invasive. From sweaty hands that lead to embarrassing handshakes, to profuse sweating on the feet that can cause serious infections, hyperhidrosis poses a significant problem to individuals across all ages.[1]

Trying to figure out how to control sweating on your hands, feet, or other body parts? Although hyperhidrosis cannot be completely cured, several treatment options exist to help you control sweat caused by hyperhidrosis. For years, hyperhidrosis was largely overlooked by both the research and clinical branches of the medical profession. However, there are currently several treatments, procedures, and even surgeries, that are a result of increased research and development that can provide individuals with much needed relief.

How to Control Sweat with a Doctor

Fortunately, dermatologists stand prepared with a myriad of treatment options to help you learn how to control sweating. Dermatologists are the best doctors for treating hyperhidrosis as they have more specific knowledge than general practitioners.

Prescriptions

As the first line of defense, your dermatologist may write you a prescription for a topical cream ​or a pill. Topical creams typically include a sweat-blocking aluminum solution like aluminum chloride or aluminum sesquichlorohydrate. These solutions will reduce the amount of sweat that can exit your pores when applied to the skin on a specific problem area. Additionally, your doctor may prescribe an oral medication for hyperhidrosis like a pill series of pills known as anticholinergics. Anticholinergics like glycopyrrolate or oxybutynin stop a chemical called acetylcholine from reaching certain nerve receptors that are connected to sweat glands.[2] When these nerve receptors are blocked sweat glands receive fewer messages from the brain telling them to produce sweat. This decreases the amount of sweat a person produces and helps them control sweat production (a.k.a. they make less sweat).[1]

Iontophoresis

Iontophoresis is a treatment for palmar (hand) and plantar (foot) hyperhidrosis that involves running a mild electrical current into the body that temporarily stops sweat glands from producing sweat. [3] During iontophoresis sessions, the affected part of the body is placed in a pan of water. A mild electrical current is administered through the water over a 20 to 40 minute period. Iontophoresis sessions must occur on a regular basis (typically weekly) for them to be effective. It may take up to ten sessions before sweating is noticeably reduced.[3] Iontophoresis really does work, and many people have gotten significant sweat control from treatment. Since the affected part of the body must be submerged in water, iontophoresis works best when it’s used to alleviate sweaty hands and feet. For some, the process of iontophoresis may need to be altered in order to make iontophoresis more effective.

Surgery

If you can’t figure out how to control sweating by using prescription medication or iontophoresis, your dermatologist may recommend a surgical treatment for primary focal hyperhidrosis to reduce your sweating. These procedures range from minimally invasive measures, like botox treatment for hyperhidrosis, to significantly more invasive procedures such as an endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy​ or an endoscopic lumbar sympathectomy. Although invasive surgical intervention should only be attempted after less invasive methods have failed, surgery can provide significant relief for people with certain kinds of serious hyperhidrosis. [1]

How to Control Sweating at Home

Over the Counter Topical Treatments

Before seeking a prescription medicine to control sweat, you may want to try an over-the-counter topical treatment for hyperhidrosis. Wondering whether you should use an antiperspirant or deodorant? If you have hyperhidrosis, then you should definitely be using antiperspirant to control sweat. There are several over-the-counter creams and solutions that contain lower percentages of the same ingredients found in prescription creams. These can be purchased both online and in retail settings. Antiperspirants have the ability to prevent sweat from reaching the surface of the skin, unlike deodorant. Some people have a difficult time choosing the right antiperspirant, as there are so many options on the market. Getting recommendations from a dermatologist and understanding the active ingredients in each product can help. Some rumors have gone around the internet questioning whether antiperspirant is safe and, to date, no studies have found that antiperspirant is bad for your health. [1]

Iontophoresis Sessions at Home

Although iontophoresis sessions may be performed at a doctor’s office, many people opt to purchase their own iontophoresis machines and conduct iontophoresis treatments at home. [1]

The upfront cost of an iontophoresis machine is hundreds of dollars, but there are advantages to this method. These advantages include convenience, time saved, and eventual savings in cost from avoiding the pay-per-session model of doing iontophoresis in a doctor’s office.

Controlling Sweat with Non-Medical Methods

In addition to traditional medical approaches, there are ways to manage hyperhidrosis via alternative methods. People can ​make changes to their exercise routines, choice in clothing, and daily habits to reduce their sweat production.​ Athletic approaches, like yoga, can help alleviate sweat by relaxing the body. There are also anxiety reduction techniques that can be used to calm the nervous system and control sweat. Selecting clothing that is best for people who sweat excessively can make getting through the day more comfortable. This means choosing clothing that allows the body to breathe, always wearing dry socks, and alternating various pairs of shoes can help curb the effects of excessive sweat. It is also important to establish a consistent routine of applying antiperspirants at the same time each day.[4]

Use Clothing to Conceal and Control Sweat

What you wear can really make a difference! Wearing breathable fabrics can reduce sweating and allow for ventilation when it inevitably does occur. Clothes with good ventilation are made from cotton and natural fibers that are lightweight and airy. It can also be helpful to wear moisture-wicking workout clothes when appropriate. Make use of the wide array of products available on the market today. How you dress can make a big difference to your overall quality of life, especially during certain seasons. Here is how to dress in the summer for hyperhidrosis.

Use the color of your clothing to mask sweat throughout the day. This means wearing darker colors and bold patterns so that sweat stains are less visible. Specifically, colors like black, charcoal, pale pink and navy blue are all solid choices. Avoid wearing colors like light gray that make sweat stains more obvious. Bold patterns will also diffuse the appearance of sweat stains so try a plaid or floral design.

TThe shape of your clothing can prevent or greatly minimize outward stains. For women, think about wearing shirts with loose fitting armpits and flowy blouses. These are comfortable and will make it harder for moisture to reach your clothing. For men, consider wearing an absorbent undershirt to soak up moisture before it reaches the outer layer of your clothes. For all over sweating, loose clothing that does not cling to the skin is a must - think flowy dresses for women and loose-fit pants or shorts for men.

If you find that you are soaking through clothes daily then there is another solution available to control sweat. There are pads specifically made to soak up underarm sweat. These conveniently adhere to garments and can be used in cases where you know other measures may just not be enough. You can also use special powders on your feet to prevent moisture build up and irritation.

Sometimes sweat is just going to happen, so bring back up clothes! If you know you are going to be in a situation where sweating is inevitable, bring a change of clothes to keep in your car or bag. You can also keep a stash of helpful products like absorbent pads, antiperspirants, and a towel.

Protect Your Feet

Feet are the foundation of your body so it is essential to keep them dry and well cared for. There are several ways to stop excessive foot sweating . Try wearing shoes made of fabric as these are more breathable and less stifling. You should also invest in sock material that is good for sweaty feet, like moisture wicking socks that are lightweight, especially when working out![5] For those times when you must wear shoes that make you sweat you can try special sole inserts that soak up extra sweat and reduce slipping. Don’t let the skin on your feet become irritated as this can lead to wounds, infections, and many more preventable problems.[1]

Learn to Relax and Take Care of Your Body

Although hyperhidrosis is a physical condition, your emotional state can have an impact on how it affects you day to day. The more aroused your nervous system is the more likely you are to sweat excessively. There are a variety of techniques you can use to calm your mind and slow down your sweat. Some useful techniques include mindfulness, deep breathing, stretching, and exercises like yoga. All of these activities are grounding and give your mind and body a chance to slow down and reset. Relaxing activities can be used as both a preventative measure and as a way to control sweat once it’s begun.[4]

Another way you can control sweat is through your diet. What you eat and drink can help or hinder hyperhidrosis symptoms. Try to avoid triggers like spicy foods, fatty processed foods, alcohol, and caffeine. Spicy foods can trick your body into thinking your temperature is rising and highly processed foods are hard to digest and can increase sweating. Both alcohol and caffeine increase sweat production because of the way they work in the body. Also, it’s important to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration and keep your body in a balanced state.[5]

Hyperhidrosis is manageable, and studies have found that hyperhidrosis is likely to get better with age, so find the things that make you feel better and enjoy your life. You are not alone and you can feel better!

Sources

1. Pariser, D. M. (2014). Hyperhidrosis (4th ed., Vol. 32). Amsterdam: Elsevier Pub. Co., 2014. Retrieved from https://www.elsevier.com/books/hyperhidrosis-an-issue-of-dermatologic-clinics/pariser/978-0-323-32607-0
2. Symposium on Anticholinergic Drug and Brain Functions in Animals,and Man. (1968). In Bradley P. B. (Ed.), Anticholinergic drugs and brain functions in animals and man Amsterdam, New York etc.] Elsevier Pub. Co., 1968. Retrieved from https://www.worldcat.org/title/anticholinergic-drugs-and-brain-functions-in-animals-and-man/oclc/681155628
3. Scifers, James R, DScPT, PT, SCS,L.A.T., A.T.C., Lewandowski, Jeff, DPT, PT, SCS,A.T.C., M.T.C., O'Brien, Matthew, PhD, LAT, ATC, & Watts, Jay, RPh,F.A.C.A., F.A.C.V.P. (2013). Iontophoresis. Athletic Training & Sports Health Care, 5(3), 103-105. doi:http://dx.doi.org.proxy.lib.duke.edu/10.3928/19425864-20130509-03 Retrieved from https://www.healio.com/orthopedics/journals/atshc/2013-5-5-3
4. Stress and Sweat: 10 Tips to Stay Cool Under Fire. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/stress#1
5. Doheny, K. (n.d.). When You Sweat Too Much. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/features/dont-sweat-it#1

Hyperhidrosis is a condition that causes a person to sweat excessively even in the absence of environmental triggers like heat. It can be an embarrassing condition that affects an estimated 5% of the world’s population.[1] For some, over-the-counter topical treatments help reduce the excessive sweating caused by hyperhidrosis, while others may need a stronger solution. If you have tried over-the-counter solutions and other methods to manage hyperhidrosis at home and they aren't working, it may be time to talk to your physician about medical treatments. While hyperhidrosis is not dangerous, it can have a negative impact on your quality of life. Dermatologists are the best doctors to treat hyperhidrosis. They are able to provide a personalized plan that can address each person’s specific needs.[1]

Find a Qualified Hyperhidrosis Dermatologist

Before attempting to self-assess what prescription or treatment will work best for you, It is recommended that you find a qualified hyperhidrosis dermatologist. It is important that the dermatologist you choose has specific experience in treating hyperhidrosis. Your general practitioner can refer you to the right type of doctor if you are unsure of where to go next. You can also find out information through your health insurance company and read reviews online. A doctor might help you to choose the right over-the-counter antiperspirant, or they might decide that you need something stronger to help you control your sweat.[1]

Prescriptions

Your hyperhidrosis dermatologist may provide you with a prescription for a topical cream or an oral medication to treat hyperhidrosis. Depending on your specific situation, you may be prescribed both a topical cream and an anticholinergic pill to alleviate your sweating. Often doctors prescribe anticholinergic medications like glycopyrrolate and oxybutynin to treat excessive sweating, but there are other types of medications for hyperhidrosis that a doctor may prescribe.[1]

Topical Creams

Hyperhidrosis dermatologists will often prescribe patients a topical cream that consists of a sweat-blocking aluminum solution paired with a series of moisturizing elements. These solutions both reduce the amount of sweat your pores produce and ensure the aluminum elements do not irritate your skin. Notably, aluminum chloride, aluminum sesquichlorohydrate, and aluminum zirconium are the three most common aluminum compounds that are used in these solutions.[2] When applied to skin, the aluminum element in antiperspirant will enter sweat glands and then break down into smaller chemical compounds once it encounters water beneath the skin. This process is known as hydrolysis. Since the compound will begin to hydrolyze (breakdown) when it encounters water, keeping the surface of your skin dry and clear of debris is essential to make sure an antiperspirant can work properly.[1]

Many hyperhidrosis dermatologists recommend applying antiperspirant at night in order to provide the solution ample time to penetrate your dry and clean skin while you sleep. Antiperspirants can be used all over the body and there are some antiperspirants made for places like the face and groin, which are sensitive and prone to irritation. It is also important to note that antiperspirant is not bad for you as some internet rumors have led people to believe. To date, there have been no studies that have shown that antiperspirant is dangerous, although more research needs to be done.[1]

Anticholinergics

Whether prescribed alongside topical creams or as an independent solution, your dermatologist may prescribe oral medications for hyperhidrosis. The most common type of medication doctors prescribe for this are known as anticholinergics. They stop a signalling chemical known as acetylcholine from delivering messages to certain nerve receptors. Reducing the signals to nerves that supply sweat glands reduces sweat production.[1]

Many scientists believe that excessive sweating is a result of an individual’s genetic tendency to produce more sweat than necessary. [3] Since a person’s genes impact how sweat glands process signals from the nervous system, blocking communication at specific binding sites that control sweat production can help reduce sweat. [3] By blocking these receptors, the sweat glands will not receive the messages from the brain that tell sweat glands to produce excessive sweat.

An easy way to understand the difference between topical aluminum creams and anticholinergics is to think about your skin as a leaky faucet. One way to stop the leak would be to tape over the outside of the faucet so that no water can leak out. Similarly, putting an aluminum cream on the hands blocks the sweat glands and allows less sweat to emerge from the body. A second solution for fixing the leaky faucet would be to decrease the amount of water pressure the faucet receives. Likewise, anticholinergics decrease the amount of signals the sweat glands receive that instruct them to produce sweat.

Iontophoresis Sessions

Iontophoresis is a treatment used to treat palmar (hand) and plantar (foot) hyperhidrosis. It involves delivering a mild electrical current into the hands or feet and it temporarily blocks sweat glands from producing sweat.[4] During iontophoresis sessions, the affected part of the body is placed in water, and electrical currents are administered over a 30-minute period. A patient typically conducts sessions weekly or bi-weekly, and it will often take up to 10 sessions before the patient can detect a notable decrease in sweating.[3] Even though it may take a while to show results, iontophoresis really does work. Since the affected part of the body must be submerged in water during iontophoresis, it is most effective when used as a treatment for sweaty hands and feet. There are ways to make iontophoresis more effective for those who do not receive satisfactory results. Some people who use iontophoresis say they experience an increase in sweating when they first begin treatment, but iontophoresis is not known to make sweating worse. The good news is that, even for those who say they experience worsened sweating, their symptoms improved if the treatment was continued over time.[1][4]

Surgery

If your hyperhidrosis symptoms cannot be reduced via topical creams, prescription medicine, or iontophoresis, your hyperhidrosis dermatologist might recommend a surgical treatment to reduce your sweating. These procedures range from minimally invasive surgeries like as botox injections and local permanent treatments for axillary hyperhidrosis to significantly more invasive procedures like endoscopic thoracic sympathectomies and endoscopic lumbar sympathectomies. [1] Although surgical intervention should only be considered following the failure of less invasive methods, surgery can provide an impressive reduction in excessive sweating in a specific area for the most severe cases of hyperhidrosis.

Botox Injections

Widely known for its association with cosmetic surgeries, botox is a substance with a notable potential to treat hyperhidrosis. Botox is used to treat axillary hyperhidrosis frequently, and it has even received approval from the FDA for that purpose. Botox is also used to treat palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis. When botulinum toxin (botox) is introduced to skin that contains sweat glands, the neurotransmitters that control the messages from the brain to sweat glands are paralyzed. [5] Since botox is actually a very strong toxin that can easily paralyze human cells, botox treatments should be conducted by experienced professionals only. Repeat Botox injections are needed every 6 or 12 months to maintain a reduction in sweat. [5]

Endoscopic Thoracic and Lumbar Sympathectomies

Endoscopic Thoracic (hand) Sympathectomies and Endoscopic Lumbar (foot) Sympathectomies are two procedures that permanently sever the connection between nerves in the spinal cord and sweat glands. This completely stops excessive sweating in problem areas. It is important to note that a hyperhidrosis dermatologist will probably not be the type of doctor performing your surgery, as it will probably require a surgeon.

Although the surgeries typically stop the sweating in a given area, there are three key risks associated with the ETS and ELS surgeries. First, these surgeries are highly invasive. The patient must be put to sleep via anesthetics for the duration of the surgery, and the surgery is quite dangerous compared to other hyperhidrosis treatments. A mistake when operating on the spinal cord could paralyze the patient for life.[6] Second, the surgery can be very expensive. Although costs vary significantly based on personal factors and insurance, paying $5,000 - $10,000 for this type of surgery is not uncommon. Finally, an individual may continue to sweat just as much as they did before the surgery. While the sweat will no longer travel to the same location following surgery, the body may continue to produce sweat through a process known as compensatory sweating.

Since surgery only stops the nerves from sending messages to one area and not the body’s overall sweat production, the sweat that was produced in the hands or feet will be redirected to another spot on the body. [6] These surgeries are irreversible, and should only be considered if your symptoms are severe and no other treatment options has helped reduce your sweat.[6]

There are many potential treatment options for those with hyperhidrosis, but what about children? There are medical treatments for children with hyperhidrosis available, although they are more limited than those available to adults. The medical cost of hyperhidrosis can be high, but it is important for those with the condition to seek out treatment if they feel it is impacting their lives. Hyperhidrosis can have a negative impact on a person's quality of life, so medical treatment should be thought of as an important step for those who are struggling to control their sweat.

The advice in this section is predominately intended for those who have primary focal hyperhidrosis. If you suspect you have secondary generalized hyperhidrosis then you should seek medical care and the focus should, at least initially, be on curing the underlying cause of your sweating. You should always follow the advice of your hyperhidrosis dermatologist and consider their advice when exploring treatment options.

Sources

1. Pariser, D. M. (2014). Hyperhidrosis (4th ed., Vol. 32). Amsterdam: Elsevier Pub. Co., 2014. Retrieved from https://www.elsevier.com/books/hyperhidrosis-an-issue-of-dermatologic-clinics/pariser/978-0-323-32607-0
2. Kamudoni, P., Mueller, B., Halford, J., Schouveller, A., Stacey, B., & Salek, M. (2017, June 8). The impact of hyperhidrosis on patients' daily life and quality of life: A qualitative investigation. Retrieved May 21, 2018, from https://hqlo.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12955-017-0693-x
3. Symposium on Anticholinergic Drug and Brain Functions in Animals,and Man. (1968). In Bradley P. B. (Ed.), Anticholinergic drugs and brain functions in animals and man Amsterdam, New York etc.] Elsevier Pub. Co., 1968. Retrieved from https://www.worldcat.org/title/anticholinergic-drugs-and-brain-functions-in-animals-and-man/oclc/681155628
4. Scifers, James R, DScPT, PT, SCS,L.A.T., A.T.C., Lewandowski, Jeff, DPT, PT, SCS,A.T.C., M.T.C., O'Brien, Matthew, PhD, LAT, ATC, & Watts, Jay, RPh,F.A.C.A., F.A.C.V.P. (2013). Iontophoresis. Athletic Training & Sports Health Care, 5(3), 103-105. doi:http://dx.doi.org.proxy.lib.duke.edu/10.3928/19425864-20130509-03 Retrieved from https://www.healio.com/orthopedics/journals/atshc/2013-5-5-3
5. Melissa A. Doft, MD;, Jeffrey A. Ascherman, MD, & Krista L. Hardy, BS. (2011, July 8). Treatment of Hyperhidrosis With Botulinum Toxin. Retrieved May 21, 2018, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22328694
6. Mancini, M., Zieve, D., & Conaway, B. (2017, January 31). Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy. Retrieved May 21, 2018, from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007291.htm

Wondering how to stop sweaty feet? One of the most common causes of excessive foot sweating is called hyperhidrosis.[1] Let’s take a look at what hyperhidrosis is and explore the options for those who are facing sweaty feet caused by it.

A Look at Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis is a condition that causes excessive sweating. While, on the surface, excessive sweat may not seem like a big deal, this condition can be life-changing for those who have it. Most of the time, sweaty feet are caused by primary focal hyperhidrosis, the most common type of hyperhidrosis..[1]

If you are wondering how much your feet should sweat in a day because excessive foot sweat is interfering in your life then you most likely have a problem. While everyone sweats at some point or another, there is usually a reason for it - like fever, exercise, or hot weather. When someone has hyperhidrosis, their body doesn’t need that kind of stimuli to begin sweating heavily. It sweats excessively on even when there are no stimuli because it has overactive sweat glands.[2]

People with hyperhidrosis have the same size and number of sweat glands as anyone else and their sweat is made of the same products, but they produce a lot more sweat. There are various causes for excessive sweating but whatever the cause it is a big inconvenience.[1]

The feet are frequently affected by hyperhidrosis. You will experience excessively sweaty feet, and for some people, you might find your hands are often sweaty as well. In addition to these locations, you may also experience craniofacial (face and head) hyperhidrosis, axillary (armpit) hyperhidrosis and excessive sweating of the groin.[1]

It’s easy to see why someone would experience excessively sweaty feet when they have hyperhidrosis because feet contain 250,000 sweat glands.[1]

Why Are Sweaty Feet a Problem?

Although sweaty feet aren’t life-threatening, they can cause a number of problems for people who suffer from hyperhidrosis. These problems give many affected by hyperhidrosis anxiety and can impair a person's quality of life.[1]

Let’s examine all the reasons sweaty feet can be an issue.

• Sliding:A simple pleasure, such as wearing flip flops in the summer, can turn into an ordeal for someone with hyperhidrosis. The flip flops turn wet from sweat and can cause the wearer to slip and slide around on them.
• Smelly feet:Wet shoes can easily become smelly shoes. Sweaty feet lead to all kinds of odors in your shoes because the sweat encourages bacterial growth. This can be extremely embarrassing, whether you’re in the locker room at school, changing at your local gym after an exercise class, or kicking off your shoes in order to cuddle up with your significant other and watch a movie at home.
• Foot infections and rashes:Having constantly sweaty feet can lead to rashes and infections such as athlete’s foot, yeast infections, nail fungus, and warts. These conditions can be uncomfortable, and over time, can be expensive to treat, especially if they keep recurring.
• Extra money for replacements:All that excessive foot sweating can cause your shoes to break down faster than they ordinarily would. Plus, if they smell bad, you’ll want to replace them anyway. That can become expensive after a while.[1][3]

How to Stop Sweaty Feet

There are treatments you can seek out to stop sweaty feet and their odor. However, there are also ways to manage hyperhidrosis at home when it is primarily affecting your feet. One of the simplest ways to deal with sweat is to find clothes and shoes that aid people who sweat excessively.

• Avoid wearing shoes that are too tight:Tight footwear will just make your problem worse. Not only will your feet be sweatier, but they’ll be rubbing against the ends and sides of your shoes too. This can cause skin irritation. In order to tell if shoes are loose enough, give them a wiggle test. If your toes aren’t free to wiggle around in your shoes, then they are too tight.
• Wear breathable shoes:When wearing athletic shoes, look for a pair that has breathable mesh on the upper part of the shoes. That will allow air to circulate better in your shoes and help your feet dry out a bit. Breathable fabric can go a long way in preventing sweaty feet.
• Try to alternate shoes:If you’re a heavy sweater, you should have two pairs of shoes you can alternate on a day-to-day basis. This will allow the shoes to dry between usages, which should help cut down on the smell.
• Use odor eaters:Putting a pair of inserts into your shoes can help keep them fresh longer. It’s cheaper to spring for a pair of inserts than it is to buy a whole new pair of shoes.
• Use powder:To help fight moisture, you can use foot powder on your feet before putting on your socks and shoes. Once you understand the ins and outs of applying foot powder, it can be an easy and helpful part of your daily routine.
• Choose your socks carefully:The best sock material for sweaty feet is breathable and keeps moisture away from the skin. You might want to consider some moisture-wicking socks to wear, either on their own or underneath another pair of socks. Look for socks made for runners – they absorb sweat well and dry quickly. Merino wool socks are another good choice for sweaty feet.
• Give your feet time to breathe:When you’re at home, don’t wear shoes at all. This will help your feet breathe after spending time in shoes all day while you’re at work. This will also ward off fungal infections.
• Wash your feet twice a day:Because of all the sweat they are producing, your feet are at a greater risk of having athlete’s foot and other fungal issues. Washing your feet with antifungal foot washes may help you avoid some of those fungal complications. After you wash them, dry them thoroughly, including between the toes. Sometimes there is confusion about whether athlete’s foot causes excessive sweating, but it is actually the other way around as sweating often worsens athlete’s foot.[1]

Medical Sweaty Feet Treatments

If you’re wanting to do what you can to stop sweaty feet from happening instead of only minimizing symptoms, you have a few options that will help.

Antiperspirant

The most commonly prescribed sweaty feet treatment is antiperspirant. When you want to make your armpits less sweaty, you turn to antiperspirants - the same theory applies to your feet. Using antiperspirant is one of the easiest ways to control foot sweat.[1]

Antiperspirant is an inexpensive and easy way to cut down on that soggy sock feeling. It’s simple to apply and over-the-counter topical treatments for hyperhidrosis can be bought almost anywhere.

Before consulting a doctor for a prescription-strength antiperspirant, you should try an over-the-counter brand to see if it’s strong enough to help you. It can be challenging to choose the right over-the-counter (OTC) antiperspirant so it is important to learn about the ingredients and strengths before investing in a specific brand. An OTC antiperspirant might be enough to get the job done, especially when combined with some of the moisture-control methods we discussed earlier. A big reason you might want to try out OTC options before asking for the clinical-strength stuff is that it is generally less irritating on the skin.

To make sure your antiperspirant is doing all it can for you, put it on at night at bedtime. This works because people with primary hyperhidrosis don’t produce sweat while they sleep. This will help antiperspirants stay on so it can be more effective. There are specific methods to remove antiperspirant from skin if that has become an issue for you.[1]

If you are in the 10% of hyperhidrosis sufferers who don't’ have primary focal hyperhidrosis, you most likely have secondary hyperhidrosis.[4] This means you don’t want to apply antiperspirant to sweaty feet at night because you may be sweating more heavily then. If this is the type of hyperhidrosis you have, your best bet is applying the deodorant right after you wash your feet. Just make sure to thoroughly dry them first.

If antiperspirant is helping somewhat, but you’d still like to pursue another treatment to keep your sweaty feet at bay you may need to manage your hyperhidrosis with a doctor. [5]

Iontophoresis Machine

An alternative treatment for sweaty feet is to use iontophoresis as a treatment for palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis. Iontophoresis is a procedure in which a machine that sends mild electrical currents through your feet is used. The mild electrical currents cause your feet to sweat less. This procedure will take you several sessions before it begins to offer relief from sweaty feet – it can be as many as 10 before you see maximum results.

During an iontophoresis session, a machine will deliver low-voltage currents of electricity into a pan of water in which your feet are resting. Each session for your sweaty feet will take about 30 minutes.[1]

This isn’t a foolproof method of reducing sweat, but iontophoresis really does work for most of the people who use it. Your sweaty feet might not completely disappear, but you should experience noticeable relief. After your initial sessions cut back some on the sweat, you’ll just have to do maintenance sessions whenever you notice the sweat production starting to ramp up again. For some people that may be every few days, but for others, it might be a couple of weeks between sessions. If you are struggling to make it work, there are some specific things you can do to make iontophoresis more effective.[1]

While it is an effective treatment for many, the cost can be prohibitive to some people. However, if you find yourself replacing your shoes frequently because of your sweaty feet, buying a machine will still save you money in the long run. The cost of hyperhidrosis in general can be hard for many people to handle, but iontophoresis is typically a good investment.[5]

Botox Injections on the Soles of the Feet

Botox is another treatment for plantar (feet) hyperhidrosis. It can be used for more than just softening the appearance of wrinkles. When used on the soles of the feet by an experienced professional, it can provide temporary, but fairly long-lasting, relief from sweaty feet. [6]

Medications

Certain types of oral medications – those known as anticholinergics – may be used as a sweaty feet treatment. They are typically only used for those who haven’t had any luck with antiperspirants, iontophoresis, or Botox. Often, doctors use anticholinergic medications called glycopyrrolate or oxybutynin to treat excessive sweating.[1]

While these medications can reduce sweat, they can be unpredictable when it comes to how much they help any particular site. They could drastically cut back on one location of excessive sweat, while not helping another location much at all.[6]

They can also cause side effects. People looking for relief from sweaty feet should look at their other treatment options first before turning to medication. [6]

What About Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy Surgery?

Although surgical treatments for primary focal hyperhidrosis can sometimes be used as a last resort for people suffering from palmar (hand) hyperhidrosis, it isn’t recommended for sweaty feet.[1]

There is a procedure called endoscopic lumbar sympathectomy, but the benefits of the surgery do not outweigh the risk. So while you may hear about ETS surgery being sometimes used to treat hyperhidrosis, it shouldn’t be explored as an option for treating sweaty feet.[7]

Sweaty Feet Can Be Managed

Sweaty feet can be a big nuisance, and they can develop complications such as athlete’s foot. It will take some attention on your part, but you can help stop the sweat by using the sweaty feet treatments discussed in this article. You may be able to manage the symptoms of hyperhidrosis at home or you may need to learn about managing hyperhidrosis with a doctor but you can find strategies to lessen the impact of sweaty feet.

With attention and treatment, your sweaty feet can be more nothing more than an inconvenience rather than a full-blown issue.

Sources

1. Pariser, D. M. (2014). Hyperhidrosis (4th ed., Vol. 32). Amsterdam: Elsevier Pub. Co., 2014. Retrieved from https://www.elsevier.com/books/hyperhidrosis-an-issue-of-dermatologic-clinics/pariser/978-0-323-32607-0
2. Huddle, J. R. (2014). Hyperhidrosis: Causes, Treatment Options and Outcomes. New York, NY: Nova Science. Retrieved from https://www.bookdepository.com/Hyperhidrosis-Janine-R-Huddle/9781633215160
3. Nordqvist, C. (2017, December 21). Hyperhidrosis: Symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment. Retrieved May 14, 2018, from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/182130.php
4. Two Types of Hyperhidrosis. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.sweathelp.org/home/types-of-hyperhidrosis.html
5. Kamudoni, P., Mueller, B., Halford, J., Schouveller, A., Stacey, B., & Salek, M. (2017, June 8). The impact of hyperhidrosis on patients' daily life and quality of life: A qualitative investigation. Retrieved May 21, 2018, from https://hqlo.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12955-017-0693-x
6. Melissa A. Doft, MD;, Jeffrey A. Ascherman, MD, & Krista L. Hardy, BS. (2011, July 8). Treatment of Hyperhidrosis With Botulinum Toxin. Retrieved May 21, 2018, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22328694
7. Reisfeld, R. (2010). Endoscopic Lumbar Sympathectomy for Focal Plantar Hyperhidrosis Using the Clamping Method. Surg Laparosc Endosc Percutan Tech, 20(4), 321-236. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20729691

Are you struggling with sweaty hands? You are not alone! Approximately 3% of the US population has a condition called hyperhidrosis that causes them to sweat excessively. Of the people who have hyperhidrosis, 90% experience hand, foot, or armpit involvement.[1] Here are some signs that your hand sweating may be excessive:

You sweat even when it isn’t hot

Your sweating interferes with your ability to do what you want

You feel self conscious about shaking hands because of your excessive sweat

You sweat so much that it causes you discomfort on a regular basis

If you can identify with the above statements, then you may be struggling with hyperhidrosis. Here are some of the causes of excessively sweaty hands and the things that you can do to help stop sweaty hands.[2]

How Hyperhidrosis Causes Sweaty Hands

The reason why humans sweat is to cool down the body and maintain a healthy internal body temperature (thermoregulation), but for people with hyperhidrosis, sweating occurs much more frequently than is necessary to keep the body cool.[1]

Hyperhidrosis causes sweat glands to be overactive which leads to excessive sweating, even in the absence of sweat triggers like heat. It doesn’t matter what the weather is like, people who have hyperhidrosis will experience excessive sweating even when there are no external reasons for it.[1]

The hands are one of the most common areas of the body affected by hyperhidrosis.[1] If you have hyperhidrosis, you may find that your hands are constantly sweaty and have no idea why. The skin on your hands may be white and peeling from the constant moisture.

Most people who struggle with sweaty hands have a form or hyperhidrosis called primary focal hyperhidrosis. Primary focal hyperhidrosis can also cause you to sweat excessively from your feet, armpits, face, or groin. Hyperhidrosis that affects the hands is known medically as palmar hyperhidrosis. Many times people with hyperhidrosis are affected on several parts of their body. Therefore, it is likely that you are dealing with excessive sweating on another part of your body in addition to your hands. If this is the case then don’t worry, there are several effective sweaty hand treatments you can use to help stop sweaty hands and improve your quality of life.[1]

Factors that Make Sweaty Hands Worse

If you are struggling with sweaty hands you’ll know just how debilitating and embarrassing this condition can be. There are several surprising factors that can cause palmar (hand) hyperhidrosis or worsen the condition.

Your Genes

Unfortunately, those constantly sweaty palms could be the result of some bad luck with your genes. One famous study carried out at the University of California in 2002 demonstrated that many debilitating cases of palmar hyperhidrosis are indeed the result of ‘faulty’ genes passed down from generation to generation. It is now thought that hyperhidrosis is hereditary, at least in part.[3]

This highlights the fact that your symptoms aren’t necessarily the result of stress or emotional issues, although hyperhidrosis and anxiety are often related. However, don’t think that healing is an impossibility - there are many treatments that can make a big difference.[1]

You’re Battling Stress

Most of us have experienced sweaty palms when something stressful happens, such as an examination, a marriage proposal or speaking in public.

This is because the stress has triggered our fight-or-flight response, releasing the stress hormones epinephrine and cortisol. These hormones help us cope with the stress, but also raise our body temperature.[4] Naturally, our bodies work to reduce this temperature in the way they know best - by activating your sweat glands. If you’re under chronic stress, your body is constantly on high alert and you are likely to continue to sweat around the clock and experience what is known as stress sweat.[5]

Social Phobia

It’s often hard to tell which came first - social anxiety or sweaty hands. However, there’s no doubt that the two feed a vicious cycle. Hyperhidrosis and anxiety often go hand in hand.

The scenario is a familiar one - you feel terribly ashamed about your sweaty hands and feel that other people will look at you in disgust and judge you negatively. So, when the bank manager goes in for the formal handshake, you feel yourself becoming insecure. Or when your gorgeous date reaches for your hand affectionately, that familiar dread rises up. Scenarios like these trigger your fight-or-flight response, your stress hormones kick in, and your palms get sweaty.[5] This will only reinforce your social phobia and make you more likely to avoid this kind of scenario in the future.

Low Blood Sugar

If you constantly crave sugary snacks and often skip meals you could be suffering from low blood sugar. This can also happen if you are suffering from diabetes.

Blood sugar issues could be worsening your palmar hyperhidrosis. Your body needs a constant supply of energy in order to work efficiently. However, when you eat these kinds of sugary foods or go for a long time without eating, your blood sugar levels can fluctuate wildly. In order to cope, it releases stress hormones like epinephrine which stimulate the release of sugar from your body stores. It also triggers symptoms of stress like sweaty palms and shaking.[6]

Too Much Alcohol

Many of us enjoy a glass or two of something alcoholic to help us wind down at the end of a long day. There’s nothing wrong with that!

Nonetheless, alcohol can be a big problem if you’re vulnerable to sweaty palms. Alcohol can cause excessive sweating, and it can worsen, or even trigger symptoms to begin. This is because alcohol causes your blood vessels to dilate which has a warming effect on your skin. This causes your parasympathetic nervous system to kick in, releasing plenty of sweat to help bring your body temperature back down.

These symptoms get worse the more alcohol you consume, and can hit chronic levels for those who become addicted.[7]

Spicy Foods and Coffee

While spicy foods and coffee are unlikely to cause severe sweaty palms, they can have an effect on the body’s ability to maintain its internal temperature. These substances can worsen sweating symptoms you might already be suffering, especially if you are sensitive to spice or caffeine. Caffeine can be a trigger for excessive sweating, so it is a good idea to use it in moderation.

Both spices and caffeine can activate neurotransmitters like acetylcholine, which cause your sweat glands to overreact and produce excessive amounts of sweat. They can also trigger the release of stress hormones which can further worsen the problem.[8]

Secondary Generalized Hyperhidrosis

Certain underlying diseases, conditions, or medications can cause a subtype of hyperhidrosis called secondary generalized hyperhidrosis. If you have one of these conditions it can increase your likelihood of experiencing sweaty hands, although sweating caused by secondary hyperhidrosis tends to affect the whole body rather than specific areas.[1]

Thyroid diseases are known to cause excessive sweating. Hyperthyroidism is an autoimmune disease which causes your immune system to attack your healthy cells, which then increases your body temperature.[9] This is similar to the way your body reacts when you are fighting off the flu. In an attempt to bring your temperature down, your parasympathetic nervous system will kick-in, releasing yet more sweat.

Hormonal fluctuations related to menopause can also cause excessive sweating. Hot flashes and night sweats are a well-known part of the menopause and can cause excessive sweating on the palms, hands, feet, and the rest of the body. This is due to fluctuating levels of the reproductive hormones estrogen and progesterone, which interfere with the body’s temperature regulation process. These hormones trigger those hot and sweaty moments. If you’re especially hormone-sensitive, this process can lead to severe symptoms that can last many years if not addressed.[10]

Sweaty palms are not your fault or a sign of weakness! There are many potential causes of sweaty hands, including lifestyle factors, genetic factors, and health conditions and none of them should be considered to be a personal failing.

What are Some Tips for Dealing with Sweaty Hands?

There are both medical and nonmedical approaches to dealing with sweaty hands and help stop sweaty hands embarrassment. Deciding which method works best for you is a personal choice that depends on your preferences and needs. Here are some options you may want to consider!

Practical Tips

There are a number of sweaty hand treatments you can pursue to reduce your sweating. Before we get to that, let’s look at some of the alternative methods you can use to manage hyperhidrosis of the hands:

• Wearing gloves:While this clearly isn’t a permanent solution, it can be a temporary fix that will let you pursue some recreational activities with more confidence. Batting gloves can be worn during softball or baseball to let you get a better grip on your bat to help with your hitting. You won’t look out of place because many athletes wear these kinds of gloves. When kayaking, you can wear gloves to help you hold on better to the paddle. As an extra perk, the gloves will help you avoid any blisters you might get from longer paddling sessions. There are many instances where wearing the right clothes can help people who sweat excessively.
• Finding your happy place:Finding ways to relax can alleviate some of the sweating. It isn’t a cure-all, but people with hyperhidrosis sweat more often than when they are anxious, so relaxing can help. Whether it’s meditation or yoga, using anxiety reduction methods can lessen excessive sweating and help you avoid some avoid and control anxiety.[5]

Medical Treatments for Sweaty Hands

If you’re looking for something to help you substantially reduce the sweat on your hands here are some medically proven treatments you may want to consider. You don’t have to simply put up with sweaty hands for the rest of your life – there are measures you can take to banish this problem, or at least significantly reduce your symptoms.

Antiperspirant

Surprisingly, antiperspirant is another type of sweaty hand treatment. Your armpits aren’t your only body parts that can benefit from wearing antiperspirant - you can use it on your hands to help stop sweaty hands as well. It is also important to understand what antiperspirant does and how it differs from deodorant. Antiperspirant actually blocks sweat glands so that sweat can't reach the surface of the skin. This is unlike deodorant which masks the smell of sweat and contains some antibacterial properties.[1]

The good thing about antiperspirant is that it is widely available and noninvasive. You can start off by trying over-the-counter antiperspirants, but you may end up needing a prescription antiperspirant. It can be confusing for people to figure out how to choose the right over-the-counter antiperspirant, but understanding the ingredients in antiperspirants can help. Before you upgrade to the next level of antiperspirant, you’ll want to make sure you’re applying the over-the-counter products correctly to give it the best chance of being successful. Here is how you should be applying it:

• Put it on at night:This is a good strategy to follow because most people with primary focal hyperhidrosis find they don’t sweat while they’re sleeping. And to give antiperspirant time to set, it should be applied while hands are as dry as possible.
• Wash your hands first:By washing and drying your hands right before applying your antiperspirant, you’ll be getting your hands dried off so the antiperspirant will adhere to your skin better.[9]

Some have had concerns that antiperspirant is not safe, but no studies have found that to be true. However, if you’ve tried antiperspirant for a while with limited or no success and you want to try another treatment, you’re in luck. There is more you can be doing. [11]

Iontophoresis Machine

Iontophoresis is a treatment for palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis that can be very effective. This low-intensity sweaty hands treatment sends low-voltage electrical currents into a pan of water in which your hands or feet are sitting.[1]

The electric current can reduce how active your sweat glands are. However, it won’t work right away. You might have to do as many as 10 sessions before you notice a real improvement. After that, you can reduce the frequency of the treatments and just set up a maintenance schedule.[1]

This procedure can be performed in a doctor’s office or at home after your doctor writes you a prescription for the equipment. Iontophoresis really does work, and if you’re struggling and unable to get results, there are ways to make iontophoresis more effective.[1]

Although it may take a few sessions to see results, iontophoresis does work. Some studies have shown it helps stop sweaty hands and feet by as much as 81 percent. Although it doesn’t offer total sweat control, that 81 percent can be a life-changing amount for someone suffering from hyperhidrosis. [1]

Botox Injections

Botox treatment for palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis can be extremely helpful. The same compound that immobilizes people’s foreheads and is frequently used as a way to look younger can help with your sweaty hands as well. Botox injections can decrease the amount of sweat your palms produce for up to six months.[1]

The biggest drawback to this type of treatment is that it can be uncomfortable when receiving the botox injections.

Before consenting to botox injections you should find an experienced dermatologist. You should look for a doctor who is experienced in treating hyperhidrosis. To find a suitable professional, you might want to use the Physician Finder function on the International Hyperhidrosis Society’s website. [12]

Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy Surgery

Many people have success in managing their sweaty hands by using a combination of sweaty hand treatment options. For some, however, these treatments are not enough. In that case, surgical treatment for primary focal hyperhidrosis may be necessary. This type of surgery is called endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy.[1]

This surgery should only be performed as a last resort though because it does carry side effects, like compensatory sweating, that may be worse than dealing with sweaty hands. [1]

Keep A Positive Outlook

Although having sweaty hands isn’t easy, there are many things you can do to improve your symptoms and help stop sweaty hands. There are better treatments on the horizon as future treatments and research for hyperhidrosis are being developed. One day in the near future, you may not even give your hands a second thought as you move through your day-to-day life. Until then, do what you can to limit the impact hyperhidrosis has on your life and do your best not to let your sweat get you down.

Sources

1. Pariser, D. M. (2014). Hyperhidrosis (4th ed., Vol. 32). Amsterdam: Elsevier Pub. Co., 2014. Retrieved from https://www.elsevier.com/books/hyperhidrosis-an-issue-of-dermatologic-clinics/pariser/978-0-323-32607-0
2. “Hyperhidrosis and Sweating: When Should You See a Doctor?” WebMD, www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/hyperhidrosis-sweating-when-should-you-see-doctor#1.
3. University Of California - Los Angeles. (2002, March 6). UCLA Study Finds Evidence That "Sweaty Palms" Syndrome Is Genetic And Underreported. ScienceDaily. Retrieved May 5, 2020 from www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2002/03/020301071230.htm
4. The Effects of Stress on Your Body. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/stress/effects-on-body#1
5. Stress Sweat Is Real, Here’s How to Manage It. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/stress-sweat
6. How does diabetes cause abnormal sweating? (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317366
7. Are night sweats a sign of alcohol withdrawal? (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324104
8. What Makes You Sweat. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/ss/slideshow-sweat-causes
9. Hyperthyroidism. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/hyperthyroidism
10. Suszynski, M. (n.d.). Menopause and Sweating. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/menopause/features/menopause-sweating-11#1
11. Nordqvist, C. (2017, December 21). Hyperhidrosis: Symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment. Retrieved May 14, 2018, from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/182130.php
12. Kamudoni, P., Mueller, B., Halford, J., Schouveller, A., Stacey, B., & Salek, M. (2017, June 8). The impact of hyperhidrosis on patients' daily life and quality of life: A qualitative investigation. Retrieved May 21, 2018, from https://hqlo.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12955-017-0693-x

While sweating is a normal bodily function, for some people, it’s much more than that. Sometimes, sweat can be extreme, embarrassing, and uncomfortable - because some people deal with excessive sweating. There are two to four million sweat glands in your body. With that many sweat glands a body can produce a lot of moisture, and sometimes, a lot of problems.[1]

An excessive sweating condition called primary focal hyperhidrosis is one of the biggest reasons some people sweat too much. People with hyperhidrosis don’t have more sweat glands than other people do, but their sweat glands are more active, leading to an increased amount of sweat.[1]

People with hyperhidrosis don’t have more sweat glands than other people do, but they are more active, leading to an increased amount of sweat.

If you’re concerned about how much sweat you’re experiencing and the potential reasons for it, then take a look at some common causes of sweating related to hyperhidrosis.

Facts About Hyperhidrosis

Approximately 5% of the population suffers from the excessive sweating condition hyperhidrosis, but that’s only the reported estimate. Some experts believe the actual percentage is much higher than that – with some estimates at 12% in the U.S. [1]

While hyperhidrosis isn't dangerous, it can be a difficult problem to deal with because it can affect every area of your life, including:

• Your relationships.
• Your anxiety levels.
• Your work and productivity.
• Which leisure activities you pursue.
• Your self-esteem.[1]

How you get hyperhidrosis depends on the type of hyperhidrosis you have. There are two main types of hyperhidrosis:

• Primary Focal Hyperhidrosis (PFH):This is the most common kind – up to 90% of people with hyperhidrosis have this type. It usually begins in childhood or adolescence. It does not signal there is any kind of underlying medical condition.[1]
• Secondary Generalized Hyperhidrosis:Also known as diaphoresis, it is another excessive sweating condition. It’s a rarer form of hyperhidrosis than PFH. Secondary hyperhidrosis is caused by a disease or condition, including some of the conditions mentioned later in this article, or a medication. It tends to show up suddenly during adulthood.[2]

Hyperhidrosis can cause excessive sweating all over the body, including in the underarms, hands, feet , face, scalp, under the breasts, and the groin. Some people with hyperhidrosis sweat in only one area, while others sweat in more than one location. The most common areas hyperhidrosis affects are the hands, underarms, and feet. Primary focal hyperhidrosis causes palmar (hand) hyperhidrosis as well as plantar (foot), axillary, and excessive sweating of the head and face. It is also important to note that some people can experience excessive sweating that develops from trauma. This type of sweating is called compensatory sweating when it results from endoscopic thoracic surgery. Another type, called gustatory sweating develops after trauma to the face and it causes people to sweat while eating.[1]

Excessive sweating can have a huge impact on the quality of life of those who suffer from it. Primary focal hyperhidrosis, for instance, tends to kick in right around the teenage years for many sufferers. That can amplify the emotional turmoil teenagers are already feeling.

There are treatments to help with the condition though. They include:

• Antiperspirants:Antiperspirant is an important tool for those with hyperhidrosis. Antiperspirant differs from deodorant as antiperspirant actually blocks sweat from escaping to the surface of the skin, rather than just masking its smell. You can get prescription-strength antiperspirants that will work better than the over-the-counter topical treatments for hyperhidrosis. They typically contain aluminum chloride or another type of partially neutralized metallic salt, and stay on your skin for up to 8 hours.
• Treatments with an iontophoresis machine:Iontophoresis is for the treatment of palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis. This is a low-intensity treatment that uses electrical currents. The low-voltage currents are sent into a pan of water in which your hands or feet sit. The current can calm your overactive sweat glands. You might need to use this treatment as many as 10 times before seeing an improvement in your symptoms. After that, you’ll use it regularly to maintain your results. Iontophoresis really does work, but some people need to learn how to make iontophoresis more effective in order to get it to work for them.
• Botox injections:This won’t work on large areas of skin and is best when only used in specific sweat-producing hotspots. Botox excels as a treatment for axillary hyperhidrosis, but can also be used as a href=botox-treatment-for-palmar-and-plantar-hyperhidrosis>href=botox-treatment-for-palmar-and-plantar-hyperhidrosis>treatment for palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis. If you choose to use botox you can have reduced sweating for up to six months. For it to be effective though, you have to find a professional who can pinpoint the sweat glands and inject them with the Botox.
• Anticholinergic Medications:These oral medications for hyperhidrosis can cut back on the amount of sweat you experience by affecting the nerve signals to your sweat glands. Most commonly, glycopyrrolate or oxybutynin are used to treat excessive sweating. However, the medications do come with some side effects. You may or may not experience the side effects, including dry mouth, blurry vision, and heart palpitations.
• Endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy surgery:This is a surgical treatment for primary focal hyperhidrosis in which they disconnect the nerves that connect to your sweat glands. If they aren’t there at all, they can’t cause excessive sweating. Before you decide this is the method you want to pursue, you should look into the risks so you can make an educated decision. The risks include an infection after surgery, scarring, nerve damage, and compensatory sweating. There is also a surgery called endoscopic lumbar sympathectomy that can treat plantar hyperhidrosis, but it is almost never recommended and is considered unsafe by many.[2]

Causes of Secondary Generalized Hyperhidrosis

Secondary hyperhidrosis is a sign that you have an underlying medical condition or are experiencing side effects of a medication. If you experience several health symptoms at the same time, like diaphoresis and pallor, their cause needs to be determined in order to make sure that the underlying issues do not progress. Here are some examples of diseases that can cause excessive sweating:

Hyperthyroidism

Your thyroid, the little butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of your neck, can be underactive or it can be overactive.

If it is underactive it’s known as hypothyroidism. That means your thyroid isn’t making enough hormones for your body. This condition causes many symptoms both internally and externally, including fatigue, dry skin, puffy face, weight gain, thinning hair, high cholesterol, and muscle aches.

On the flip side, if your thyroid is overactive, it’s known as hyperthyroidism. That means your body is producing too much of the hormone thyroxine.

Hyperthyroidism is one of the medical causes of sweating that can be excessive. Other symptoms may include weight loss, rapid heartbeat, nervousness, and irritability.

If you suspect hyperthyroidism is the reason for your excessive sweating, you can be tested for it with a blood test that looks at your levels of TSH and thyroxine. There are treatments available for hyperthyroidism, including medication, surgery, and radioactive iodine.[3]

Medications

If you’ve started to sweat excessively since making a medication change, you might want to investigate it further. While most medications don’t produce sweating as a side effect, some common medications can cause hyperhidrosis. Not everyone who takes a certain medication will experience excessive sweating, however. So, even if a medicine is known to cause sweating, you might take it and be perfectly fine.

Some examples of medications that may make you sweat include:

• Some high blood pressure medicines.
• Certain psychiatric drugs.
• Medicines for dry mouth.
• Certain antibiotics.
• Various supplements.

If you are experiencing excessive sweating and you suspect a medication, you can talk to your doctor about whether there’s a substitute medication you could try instead. [1],[4]

Cancer

Hyperhidrosis itself is not bad for your health, but it can be a sign of an underlying problem. A serious cause of excessive sweating can include certain kinds of cancer. Although doctors can’t say for certain why excessive sweating occurs with particular cancers, it can.

Some of the kinds of cancer that might cause excessive sweating include:

• Liver.
• Leukemia.
• Mesothelioma.
• Bone cancer.
• Lymphoma.

Other cancers can also cause heavy sweating, especially if they are in an advanced stage.[5]

Glucose Issues

People who have problems with glucose levels that drop too low can also have excessive sweating. This includes people who have any type of diabetes, whether it be Type 1, Type 2, or gestational diabetes during pregnancy.

It can also happen to people who suffer from hypoglycemia - a condition that causes low blood sugar.

Excessive sweating caused by glucose issues will correct itself once your blood sugar stabilizes.[6]

Menopause

This particular cause of excessive sweating only applies to women. Up to 75% of women going through menopause, and even some in perimenopause, say they experience hot flashes, heavy sweating, and night sweats.[7]

Experts believe excessive sweating during menopause primarily happens because of dropping estrogen levels.[7]

Anxiety

Extreme anxiety can cause heavy sweating, and often, people with hyperhidrosis also experience anxiety. If you’re worried or anxious about something, like delivering a public speech, hyperhidrosis symptoms can become exacerbated. This phenomenon is also known as stress sweating.[1].

Obesity or Overeating

Not all overweight people sweat excessively, but being obese can cause you to sweat more heavily than if you were of an average weight. If you’ve noticed your sweat ramping up as you’ve gained a few pounds, it may be one of the causes of excessive sweating for you.[1]

If you’re carrying excess weight and think it might be causing your hyperhidrosis, you can try to control your weight through diet and exercise and see if that helps.

Parkinson’s Disease

Some people with Parkinson’s disease may experience excessive sweating due to how the disease affects their nervous system. Excessive sweating, or even decreased sweating, can be a sign that someone has the condition. If you have Parkinson’s you might also notice you’re more prone to sweating at night.[8]

Rheumatoid Arthritis

If you have rheumatoid arthritis, you may not always experience excessive sweating. You might find you have severe sweating at certain times, while it seems to go away at other times.

In addition to excessive sweating, some of the other symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include:

• Joint pain and swelling
• Fatigue
• Stiffness
• Flu-like symptoms[9]

Infection

Certain infections can cause excessive sweating. An example is endocarditis, which is an infection that attacks the inner lining of the heart.

Another infection that tends to cause extreme sweating is tuberculosis. It tends to cause heavy night sweats in particular.[1]

Gout

Gout is known as a cause of hyperhidrosis. It is caused by having too much uric acid in the blood. The extra uric acid forms crystals under your skin and in your joints which can cause physical problems.

The telltale symptoms of gout, in addition to heavy sweating, include swelling, pain, and tender joints.[10]

Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a common cause of heavy sweating, particularly in late pregnancy as your body has to adjust to the new load it’s carrying. If you’re pregnant and notice your sweat has been soaking through your clothes lately, there is no cause for alarm. For many women, this is a normal part of pregnancy.

Your excessive sweating, in this case, should resolve shortly after you give birth. [1],[4]

How To Handle Excessive Sweating

If you’ve noticed an increase in the amount of sweat you produce, pay attention to your body. It’s important to note if you have any other symptoms that accompany the sweating to make sure it’s not caused by an underlying issue. You may have an excessive sweating condition related to secondary generalized hyperhidrosis that can be treated by a doctor.[1]

If you’ve always been a heavy sweater, you likely have primary focal hyperhidrosis. The treatments listed above in this article can give you some ideas for how to manage your sweat. There are many strategies to manage your hyperhidrosis at home or use alternative methods to treat symptoms if you feel like traditional medical approaches are not for you.[1]

While many causes of excessive sweating are harmless, some should be further investigated and possibly managed by a doctor. Don’t give up on finding a treatment that will work for you, and remember, you are not alone in this!

Sources

1. Pariser, D. M. (2014). Hyperhidrosis (4th ed., Vol. 32). Amsterdam: Elsevier Pub. Co., 2014. Retrieved from https://www.elsevier.com/books/hyperhidrosis-an-issue-of-dermatologic-clinics/pariser/978-0-323-32607-0
2. Nordqvist, C. (2017, December 21). Hyperhidrosis: Symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment. Retrieved May 14, 2018, from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/182130.php
3. Thyroid Problems. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/women/guide/understanding-thyroid-problems-basics#1
4. Symposium on Anticholinergic Drug and Brain Functions in Animals,and Man. (1968). In Bradley P. B. (Ed.), Anticholinergic drugs and brain functions in animals and man Amsterdam, New York etc.] Elsevier Pub. Co., 1968. Retrieved from https://books.google.com/books?id=__NsAAAAMAAJ&hl=en
5. Does cancer cause night sweats? (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/314008
6. How does diabetes cause abnormal sweating? (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317366
7. Suszynski, M. (n.d.). Menopause and Sweating. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/menopause/features/menopause-sweating-11#1
8. Gilbert, R., Dr. (2019, July 23). SWEATING AND OTHER SKIN PROBLEMS IN PEOPLE WITH PARKINSON’S DISEASE. Retrieved from https://www.apdaparkinson.org/article/sweating-and-skin-problems/
9. Rheumatoid Arthritis. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20353648
10. Gout: Joint pain and more. (2007, December). Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/pain/gout-joint-pain-and-more