Hello, I'm a medical expert with a focus on dermatology and endocrinology. I specialize in understanding and treating conditions that affect the skin and the body's hormone balance, such as hyperhidrosis. Let's dive into understanding what causes hyperhidrosis.
Hyperhidrosis is a condition characterized by excessive sweating that is not solely due to external factors such as heat, exercise, or stress. It can be quite a distressing condition for those who suffer from it, as it can interfere with daily activities and social interactions. The condition can be classified into two main types: primary (focal) and secondary (generalized) hyperhidrosis.

Primary Hyperhidrosis is the most common form and typically occurs in specific areas of the body, such as the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, underarms, and sometimes the face. The exact cause of primary hyperhidrosis is not entirely understood, but several factors are believed to contribute to its development:


1. Genetic Factors: There is evidence to suggest that hyperhidrosis can run in families, indicating a genetic predisposition.


2. Overactive Nervous System: Some researchers believe that an overactive sympathetic nervous system may be at play. This system controls sweat production, and if it's overactive, it can lead to excessive sweating.


3. Abnormalities in Sweat Glands: Structural or functional abnormalities in the eccrine sweat glands, which are responsible for producing sweat, could also be a factor.


4. Compensatory Sweating: After certain surgeries, such as a thoracic sympathectomy, which is a procedure to treat excessive sweating, compensatory sweating may occur. This is when the body starts to sweat more in other areas to compensate for the reduced sweating in the treated area.


5. Emotional Stress: While stress can trigger sweating in anyone, those with hyperhidrosis may have an exaggerated response to emotional triggers.

Secondary Hyperhidrosis, on the other hand, is caused by an underlying health condition. Some of the conditions that can lead to secondary hyperhidrosis include:


1. Obesity: Excess weight can put a strain on the body's systems, including the sweat glands, leading to increased sweating.


2. Gout: This condition, characterized by high levels of uric acid in the body, can cause excessive sweating.


3. Menopause: Hormonal changes during menopause can affect the body's temperature regulation, leading to night sweats and hot flashes.


4. Tumors: Certain tumors, particularly those affecting the nervous system, can cause hyperhidrosis.


5. Mercury Poisoning: Exposure to high levels of mercury can lead to a variety of symptoms, including excessive sweating.


6. Diabetes Mellitus: High blood sugar levels can affect the body's ability to regulate temperature, which may result in hyperhidrosis.

7.
Hyperthyroidism: An overactive thyroid gland can increase the metabolic rate, leading to increased sweating.

It's important to note that while these conditions can cause excessive sweating, they are not the only causes. A thorough medical evaluation is necessary to determine the exact cause of hyperhidrosis in each individual case.

Treatment for hyperhidrosis can range from topical antiperspirants to oral medications, iontophoresis, botox injections, and in some cases, surgery. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the condition, the areas affected, and the underlying cause if it's secondary hyperhidrosis.

Understanding the cause of hyperhidrosis is crucial for effective management. If you're experiencing excessive sweating, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional who can help you determine the cause and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

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In the majority of cases, the hyperhidrosis is localized. Secondary hyperhidrosis: The person sweats too much because of an underlying health condition, such as obesity, gout, menopause, a tumor, mercury poisoning, diabetes mellitus, or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland).Dec 21, 2017read more >>