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Poradnia Lekarza Rodzinnego Mariola Karolak-Tomczuk
2 min read473 words

Excessive sweating - what is hyperhidrosis and how does it manifest?

Excessive sweating - causes, symptoms, and treatment. What exactly is hyperhidrosis, what are its symptoms, and how does it affect daily life?

Excessive sweating - what is hyperhidrosis and how does it manifest?

Hyperhidrosis, also known as excessive sweating, is a condition characterized by abnormally increased sweating. States of hyperhidrosis can affect various areas of the body, such as the armpits, feet, or abdomen. While the excessive release of sweat is typically associated with intense physical exertion or strong emotions, in the case of hyperhidrosis, it occurs without an apparent cause. Sweating problems can become generalized to the entire body, which significantly hinders a person's life. In some cases, hyperhidrosis is a result of menopause, which increases the amount of sweat secreted from the sweat glands. Symptoms of hyperhidrosis can lead to:

  • unpleasant odor,
  • moisture on the skin,
  • migration of microorganisms,
  • discomfort.

Excessive sweating at night

Excessive sweating at night is a fairly common problem that affects many people. It can have various causes, ranging from illnesses and stress to an improper diet. It is worth consulting a doctor to rule out more serious health issues. If the cause is only related to improper habits, it is worth making changes, such as:

  • avoiding alcohol,
  • limiting caffeine consumption,
  • avoiding stimulant substances before bed,
  • choosing appropriate bedding,
  • adjusting the room temperature.

Excessive sweating of the head and face - causes

Excessive sweating of the head and face is a problem that affects many people and can lead to significant discomfort and hinder daily functioning. The cause of this phenomenon can be many factors, including infectious diseases, neuroses, endocrinopathies, or circulatory system disorders. This symptom often appears in stressful situations or during physical exertion, which is the body's natural response to increased energy demand. However, when excessive sweating becomes chronic or occurs without an apparent cause, it is worth consulting a Lekarz rodzinny Poznań Ogrody to rule out more serious conditions and discuss potential therapy.

What tests should be done for excessive sweating?

People with hyperhidrosis often sweat on their hands, feet, or the entire body in situations where others would not feel such discomfort. Although the causes of excessive sweating can vary, diagnosing this condition usually requires performing tests. The first step in diagnosis is to rule out secondary causes, such as hyperthyroidism or hyperparathyroidism. If secondary causes cannot be found, the assessment can be generalized to examine:

  • body weight,
  • heart palpitations,
  • lifestyle,
  • stress.

Hyperhidrosis - how to diagnose and treat?

The best way to diagnose hyperhidrosis is to perform a Minor’s test (iodine-starch test). Treatment for hyperhidrosis includes the use of antiperspirants, which help inhibit excessive sweating. Invasive methods can also be used, such as iontophoresis, which involves using an electric current to suppress hyperhidrosis. In the case of secondary hyperhidrosis, which is caused by cancer or other diseases, it may be necessary to treat those underlying problems. For localized hyperhidrosis, aluminum compounds can be used to reduce sweat production. In any case, the treatment of hyperhidrosis should be carried out under the supervision of a specialist.

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