Hyperhidrosis and the Long-term Health Implications of Excessive Sweating

You could have hyperhidrosis if you sweat excessively and have to change clothes multiple times a day. The condition affects 3% of Americans and occurs in otherwise healthy individuals. You ought to consider treatment to reduce incidences of dehydration and skin infections. Depending on the Plainview Hyperhidrosis diagnostic results, your provider may prescribe medical-grade antiperspirants and topical ointments.

What happens when you have hyperhidrosis?

People with hyperhidrosis tend to sweat profusely, even in the absence of heat. Hyperhidrosis patients may sweat even when not engaged in any physically demanding activity.

There are two categories of the condition based on the area where the sweating occurs. Primary hyperhidrosis describes excessive sweating limited to certain areas like the palms and armpits.

Primary hyperhidrosis occurs due to genetic factors that may run in your family. Typically, it is not an indication of a medical problem. But it can still cause problems such as social anxiety and skin infections.

The other category is secondary hyperhidrosis, which causes excessive sweating across your entire body. Antidepressants and hormonal therapy may trigger a case of secondary hyperthyroidism. It is often a sign of underlying health problems.

What causes secondary hyperhidrosis?

Secondary hyperhidrosis could arise from diabetes, hyperthyroidism, or nervous system disorders. A drop in blood sugar levels forces the body to release higher quantities of adrenaline-the fight or flight hormone.

If the blood sugar levels drop for an extended period, it may damage the nerves responsible for sweating. Poor nerve function will overstimulate the sweat glands, causing excessive sweating.

The thyroid gland regulates the metabolic system, including the heart rate and body temperature. Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid becomes overactive. The condition may also impact your cardiovascular health.

Another factor is fluctuating hormone levels during pregnancy. Estrogen can cause night sweating and hot flashes. It often happens in the third trimester when estrogen levels reach their peak.

Occasional night sweating is expected during the first and third trimesters. But if the problem persists for more than six weeks after delivery, you may have hyperhidrosis. Also, consider visiting your doctor for an evaluation if you experience prolonged fever or severe dehydration.

People with a BMI (Body Mass Index) higher than 30 have an elevated risk of hyperhidrosis. Excessive weight forces the body to expend more energy when moving. The larger surface area to volume ratio triggers requires more fluid for temperature regulation.

Health implications of hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis can trigger several physical and mental health issues if it remains untreated. An excessive loss of fluids from the body can cause dehydration. Dehydration can induce seizures, heat exhaustion, and low blood volume.

Excessive sweating increases the risk of skin infections. The fluids cause dampness, creating suitable conditions for bacteria to thrive.

Hyperhidrosis may lead to mental health problems like stress and social phobia. The body odor and clammy hands could compel you to avoid social situations. It also has an interrelationship with anxiety, causing the patient to be anxious when sweating and vice versa.  

Consult MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery for a comprehensive hyperhidrosis evaluation today.