The body naturally perspires to regulate body heat. Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating of the hands, feet and other parts of the body) is a condition in which the sympathetic nervous system does not shut off the sweat reflex properly.
Hyperhidrosis causes the hands, feet or other parts of the body to sweat profusely with no useful purpose, regardless of how hot or cold it is.
One to two percent of Americans are affected by essential hyperhidrosis. The cause remains unknown, but it may be genetic since 70 to 80 percent of those affect have another family member with the condition. Although the majority of patients with hyperhidrosis are young adults, cases have been noted in infants and young children, as well as people in their 60s.
Over the years, a variety of treatments have been tried, although most are symptomatic. These include:
- Use of powerful antiperspirants (e.g., Drysol) applied to the hands and armpits at night and then removed in the morning. This treatment is usually the first to be tried and may be effective in mild cases.
- Tap water iontophoresis, which involves placing the hands in an electrolyte solution with a low-level electrical current several times a week for several weeks. This can be uncomfortable, expensive and time-consuming, although equipment can be purchased for home use. This may provide temporary relief in mild cases.
- Anticholinergic drugs, such as atropine or Robinol can reduce perspiration, although they may also cause side effects (such as dry mouth, urinary problems or vision difficulties)
- Psychotherapy, which may be useful for developing coping and social skills, although it does not treat the underlying medical problem
