Profuse Sweating, Is It Normal or a Sign of Disease?
Sweating is a natural body function. When it is hot, when we exercise, or in moments of stress or fear, our bodies produce sweat to regulate our temperature. However, when sweating becomes excessive, it might mean you’re suffering from a condition known as hyperhidrosis, popularly referred to as profuse sweating.
Hyperhidrosis is a condition characterized by intense, often unpredictable sweating. This profuse sweating can occur in various parts of the body such as palms, feet, underarms, and face. Though it’s physically harmless, hyperhidrosis can lead to significant psychological and social distress, impacting one’s quality of life.
What Causes Profuse Sweating?
In many instances, the exact cause of profuse sweating is unknown. This condition is likely due to an overactive sweat gland. However, hyperhidrosis can also occasionally result from underlying health conditions such as endocrine diseases, neurological disorders, infections, and malignancies. It can also be a side effect of certain medications.
Diagnosis and Full Body Excessive Sweating Treatment
Hyperhidrosis diagnosis typically involves medical history assessment and physical examination. In some cases, further tests, such as blood and urine tests, may be necessary to rule out underlying conditions.
Once a diagnosis is confirmed, full body excessive sweating treatment can commence. Treatment options usually depend on the severity of the condition and the specific body areas affected. For mild symptoms, patients may responders well to prescription antiperspirants. Other conservative non-surgical treatment methods include Iontophoresis (a treatment that uses electrical currents to temporarily disable sweat glands), anticholinergic drugs, and botox injections.
However, in severe cases, surgical procedures such as endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS), in which certain nerve signals to the sweat glands are cut off, may be necessary. It’s always advisable to consult with a doctor or a dermatologist to choose the most appropriate treatment option for each individual case.
Living with Profuse Sweating
Hyperhidrosis, while it might not pose an immediate physical threat, can cause significant emotional and psychological distress. It’s not unusual for people with this condition to feel self-conscious, leading to social anxiety and even depression. Therefore, it’s important to provide emotional and psychological support alongside medical treatment.
Hyperhidrosis of an unknown cause or occurring independently of any physical exertion or warm temperatures is referred to as primary hyperhidrosis, while secondary hyperhidrosis refers to excessive sweating due to an underlying health issue.
Remember, sweating is a natural body function. It’s our body’s way of cooling us down and allowing us to continue fruitful physical activity. But when it becomes a constant battle, it’s time to consult with a healthcare expert. There’s no need to be embarrassed or awkward about it, as it’s a common condition that many people live with, and solutions are available.
