Definition

Hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating. Common places are the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and/or the armpits.

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Causes

Primary hyperhidrosis does not have a cause. It may be triggered by:

• High emotional states, such as intense sadness, fear, anger, or stress
• Spicy foods
• Hot climates
• Certain medicines

Secondary hyperhidrosis is caused by an underlying health problem, such as:

• Fever
• Infection
• Menopause
• Cancer, such as lymphoma
• Thyroid disease
• Acromegaly or anterior pituitary tumor
• Hypothalamic disorders
• Adrenal tumor
• Parkinson disease
• Problems with the nervous system
• Diabetes
• Tuberculosis
• Drug withdrawal
• Certain medicines

Risk Factors

Things that may raise the risk of secondary hyperhidrosis are having any of the health problems that cause it.

Symptoms

Problems may be:

• Excessive sweating of palms of the hands and/or soles of the feet
• Excessive sweating of the armpits, head, and/or face
• Increased amount of sweating
• Change in pattern of sweating
• Change in the sweat odor
• Stained, wet clothing

This problem can be embarrassing and affect relationships.

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. This may be enough to make the diagnosis in some people.

Tests may be done to find out what may be causing the problem.

Treatment

The goal is to manage symptoms.

Prevention

There are no current guidelines to prevent hyperhidrosis.