Hyperhidrosis is a condition that results in excessive sweating. The condition occurs in various regions of the body and has a different name depending on where it presents. Hyperhidrosis is characterized by abnormal, excessive sweating that can occur in the hands, armpits and feet. For some, the abundant sweating is localized to one area, such as the hands, while others may experience increased sweating in one or more areas. The region where the condition occures gives rise to different clinical descriptions:
| In the hands | Palmar hyperhidrosis |
| In the armpits | Axillary hyperhidrosis |
| In the feet | Plantar hyperhidrosis |
| In the face and head | Craniofacial hyperhidrosis |
| Through the entire body | Hyperhidrosis |
Hyperhidrosis is rare, affecting about 1 percent of the population. However, for those affected, the condition often interferes with their daily activities and can be rather embarrassing in social situations. Although the exact cause of this excessive sweating remains unknown, we do know that it is commonly controlled by the sympathetic nervous system, which normally responds strongly in situations of fear or stress.
The excessive sweating often interferes with daily activities, such as employment, personal relationships, and recreational activities, and may be a source of significant social embarrassment. For example, patients with palmar hyperhidrosis have wet, moist hands that sometimes interfere with shaking hands or grasping objects. Those with axillary hyperhidrosis sweat profusely from their underarms causing them to stain their clothes shortly after they dress. Plantar hyperhidrosis, excessive sweating of the feet, makes ones socks and shoes wet, which leads to increased foot odor.
Symptoms of hyperhidrosis often become noticeable during childhood and adolescence. In many cases, the sweating can be quite severe, affecting everyday life and causing social embarrassment. The individual may feel uncomfortable, self-conscious and have an altered self-image due to the relentless, excessive sweating. It is thought that the excessive sweating may be brought on by stress, emotions or exercise. However, it also can occur spontaneously.
The sympathetic nervous system controls sweating throughout the body. Often there is no identifiable cause, but excessive activity of the sympathetic nervous system is believed to be responsible in the majority of those affected. The sympathetic nervous system normally responds strongly in situations of fear or stress. It is not understood why individuals with hyperhidrosis appear to have constant increased activity of this system. The involved nerves branch from the sympathetic chain within the chest cavity.