What causes Hyperhidrosis?

As with any ailment, understanding how it develops is the key to treating it. So what are the causes of Hyperhidrosis? 

For reasons unclear to researchers, extreme sweating occurs when the sympathetic nervous system goes into overdrive. There also seems to be a hereditary component to the condition, as some sufferers claim to have a relative with Hyperhidrosis.

So, putting aside the hereditary factors, (because there’s not much we can do about those!), let’s turn our attentions to the other cause – over-activity of the sympathetic nervous system… 

Although nobody seems to understand the exact cause of our problem, we do know that the normal bodily process of sweating is controlled by the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) – as explained above. It therefore follows that if we are sweating excessively, as in the case of Hyperhidrosis, 

the SNS must be working too hard or undergoing too much stimulation in some way. Many doctors feel that when the sympathetic nerves are over stimulated too much of the neurotransmitter, acetylcholine is produced. Too much of this chemical present next to the sweat glands stimulates them to produce large amounts of fluid.

It makes sense then, if we are to reduce or control excessive sweating, we need to reduce activities and substances that stimulate the nervous system.

It is on this principle that my treatment program rests. We’ll come to the program in a moment but first let’s have a quick look at some of the other treatments that are currently available for Hyperhidrosis.

Essential background information on sweating

Although at this moment in time you wish you could stop sweating entirely, you have to realize that sweating is a normal and essential bodily function. Sweat serves to cool off and lubricate the skin; especially in areas that may rub against other areas of skin, such as under the arms and around the groin. It is also an important means of elimination for the various toxins you are exposed to on a daily basis. If you have Hyperhidrosis, whatever method you choose to deal with it should not stop this natural and necessary mechanism. Sweat is produced by glands in the deep layer of the skin which filter fluid and salts out of the blood. The resulting sweat is secreted through small tubes in the skin (sweat ducts) that empty out into small pores at the top outer layer of the skin. Sweat glands are present in the highest concentration in the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.

There are two factors which cause the body to sweat. One is an increase in body temperature – the brain tells the body to sweat in order to keep it cool so as to maintain an optimal internal temperature. The other reason we sweat is in response to emotional factors such as anxiety or stress and this is a very important point. The activity of the sweat glands is totally under the control of the Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS). In high-stress situations such as before a first date, meeting an angry boss, an interview etc. the SNS takes over in what is commonly known as the ‘fight or flight response’. As a reaction to danger, excitement or psychological stress the SNS sends most of your blood to your heart, lungs, and large muscles so that you can have the strength and endurance to successfully handle the situation. It also senses theincrease in body temperature that comes with these fight or flightsituations, and sends a signal to your sweat glands to produce sweatto cool you down. This means sweating is an involuntary process – we have no conscious control over it. Lifting your arm, chewing and clapping your hands are all voluntary processes i.e. you have a choice as to whether or not you do them. But sweating, along with breathing and jerking your hand away after touching a hot stove is an involuntary action – and is largely beyond our control. Don’t get disheartened by this last comment though, just because we can’t stop our bodies from sweating (nor should we try – it’s an essential process), we can alter the conditions and triggers that lead to sweating so that it happens at a more normal rate

How to get rid of Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) , follow these steps

Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) is a common problem, especially of the palms, armpits and soles. It can be distressing and can have a serious impact on your life. In some cases, affected people avoid social contact with others because of embarrassment about the problem. However, the condition is usually treatable.

What is excessive sweating?

Normal sweating helps to keep the body temperature steady in hot weather, during a high temperature (fever), or when exercising. Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) means that you sweat much more than normal. Even when you are not hot, anxious, or exercising, you make a lot of sweat.

Excessive sweating is classified into three types (as follows). It is important to know which type you have, as the causes and treatments are very different

Who's affected?

Most people produce about a litre of sweat each day, but people with hyperhidrosis (about 2-3% of the population), can produce up to 10 times as much.

Excessive sweating can be caused by illnesses, such as obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure. It normally stops once the underlying condition is treated.

But it’s also a condition in its own right. When the nerves that control sweating don’t function normally, they cause constant sweating in one or more areas of the body.

“The hands, the feet and the armpits (underarm) are the most common places,” says Halford. “The face, the head, the groin, the back and the chest also sweat, but not as commonly.”

People with excessive sweating wish they could just turn the tap off. It might not be as easy as that, but there are effective treatments available.

What help is available?

Changing your lifestyle and daily activities can improve symptoms and make you feel more self-confident.

Self-help tips:

• Avoid known triggers that make your sweating worse, such as spicy foods or alcohol.
• Frequently use antiperspirant spray (rather than deodorants).
• Avoid tight, restrictive clothing and man-made fibres, such as nylon.
• Wearing white or black clothing can minimise the signs of sweating.
• Armpit shields can absorb excessive sweat and protect your clothes.
• Wear socks that absorb moisture, for example thick, soft socks made of natural fibres or sports socks designed to absorb moisture. Avoid synthetics, and change your socks at least twice a day.
• Buy shoes that are made of leather, canvas or mesh rather than