Sweating is a natural process of the human body. It’s how we are able to cool ourselves off when we get too warm and can be a way for the body to rid itself of toxins. Some people’s bodies go into overdrive when it comes to sweating, causing a medical condition known as hyperhidrosis. On average, a person with hyperhidrosis sweats four to five times as much as an individual who does not have the condition.
Luckily, there are treatments for hyperhidrosis. But what causes excessive sweating in the first place? Learn more about this condition that affects nearly 8 million Americans by discovering the science behind hyperhidrosis.
What causes hyperhidrosis?
Nearly everyone sweats when they’re in an environment that is too warm, after they’ve done physical activity, and when they’re under stress or afraid. Certain nerves tell the body to sweat when you experience these situations. Those with hyperhidrosis will start sweating more than usual for no apparent reason. It’s likely that for these individuals, those same nerves overreact and cause excessive sweating.
Researchers have not found a concrete reason why some people have hyperhidrosis, but they know for certain that it is not a condition that you can catch from someone else. They also know that the two types of hyperhidrosis — primary focal hyperhidrosis and secondary generalized hyperhidrosis — have different causes. About 30% to 50% of people who have primary focal hyperhidrosis have a family history of excessive sweating, indicating that the condition for them is genetic. Secondary generalized hyperhidrosis is a result of another medical condition or a side effect of medications, such as certain antidepressants.
Who is at risk for hyperhidrosis?
One of the biggest difficulties in finding a cause of hyperhidrosis is that it is underreported. Many people feel ashamed that they are sweating constantly, but the only way to find treatments for hyperhidrosis is to know if you are at risk and then speak to a doctor as soon as possible. Researchers know people with a family history of constant sweating may have a genetic predisposition, but if you have any of these medical conditions you may also be at risk:
- Adrenal gland disorders
- Heart disease
- Menopause
- Spinal cord injuries
- Parkinson’s disease
- Hyperthyroidism
- Lung disease
- Infectious diseases, such as HIV or tuberculosis
No matter what the cause for your hyperhidrosis may be, there are solutions for you to control excessive sweating. Contact Hidrex USA today to learn about treatments for hyperhidrosis.
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