Society

Although sweating is a normal physiological reaction, excessive sweating is sometimes explained by a little-known disorder called hyperhidrosis.

In the sun, or following intense physical effort, during a stressful presentation, after a spicy dinner, sweating can be more abundantly than usual. It's simply a sign of an internal regulation shown by the body. Strong emotions or physical activities cause our body temperature to rise above 37°C and small drops of sweat produced by our sweat glands flow. That's how the body's heat is evacuated. In some cases, sweating can occur without warning, without any effort or stress. Behind this strange phenomenon lies hyperhidrosis, a disease or disorder that affects approximately 5% of the world's population.

Two possible origins

Hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating is either a manifestation of hyperactivity and overproduction in the sweat glands, or a symptom of a more serious pathology. Essential or primary, hyperhidrosis is not caused by any specific disease, it represents the consequence of significant physiological changes (pregnancy, puberty, menopause, etc.), and can be explained by genetics or be due to strong emotional stress.

Secondary hyperhidrosis arises from a disease, a deviation of the nervous system or the endocrine system for example. This pathological sweat, primary or secondary, no longer plays its role as an internal air conditioner, it's actually totally disconnected from it, it overflows and poisons the lives of many people. Affecting adolescents more, it can diminish over time.

A tainted daily life

For the time being, and for some, it remains a burden that is difficult to live with. Visible on the skin, or in the form of halos on clothing, symbolized by awkward handshakes or an unpleasant odor, sweat trickles like shame on a daily basis. Many patients consult their dermatologist because of this. If the social repercussions become too significant, psychological help is necessary. Specialists rely on the hyperhidrosis severity scale to assess the seriousness of the situation, as well as the discomfort in order to find an appropriate treatment.

Treatments to consider

The first aid to consider, in the event of localized or generalized sweating all over the body, are antiperspirants. Traditional deodorants are often ineffective, it may be necessary to look into aluminum chloride or hydroalcoholic gel to reduce sweat. It's certain that these products will only have a temporary effect, but sometimes sufficient to face certain periods of the day.

Iontophoresis is recommended for hyperhidrosis located in the hands and feet. This involves immersing the affected areas in water with a weak electric current passing through it. This current will stop the sweat gland's activity. For long-term effectiveness (around 9 months), the operation will need to be repeated three times a week and then followed by more spaced out treatments.

Botulinum toxin injections are also prescribed for specific areas, more exposed areas. Botox will not stop sweat activity but it will control the contraction of the muscles surrounding the affected part of the body. Consequently, this contraction will be less effective and sweat will no longer be able to "come out". Laser sessions can also be effective but they are very expensive.

Surgery can provide support to patients but unfortunately it still involves many risks. Sympathectomy, a surgical method that involves cutting the sympathetic nerve in the upper body, will have the effect of canceling the transmission of signals from the nervous system to the sweat glands and therefore blocking sweating at the upper level of the body. This treatment can cause what is called compensatory sweating. Excessive sweating no longer comes from the upper body but from the lower limbs. Another problem arises.

Finally, gentle therapies such as yoga, meditation, hypnosis, can intervene in the management of stress and negative emotions. They will serve as natural methods to reduce sweating caused by significant anxiety. Relaxation can help, throughout life.

(MH with AsD - EVG / Illustration: Pixabay - un-perfekt)