Hyperhidrosis

Excessive sweating accompanied by an unusual odor causes embarrassment, loss of self-confidence, reduced quality of life, and many other negative consequences for sufferers.

This article was professionally reviewed by MSc. Dr. Ta Quoc Hung and Dr. Le Vi Anh, Department of Dermatology - Cosmetic Dermatology, University Medical Center of Ho Chi Minh City.

Define

According to the Mayo Clinic Foundation for Medical Education & Research (MCO) website, excessive sweating (or hyperhidrosis) is when you sweat more than expected even when the ambient temperature or level of physical activity is normal, and you are not stressed.

Excessive sweating affects certain areas, such as the palms, soles of the feet, armpits, or face... Increased sweating is associated with an unusual odor (body odor).

Who is at risk of excessive sweating?

- The disease can occur at any age and in both sexes.

However, the disease is more common during puberty.

Reason

- Increased sweating is the body's self-cooling mechanism. The autonomic nervous system activates the sweat glands when body temperature rises.

- Excessive sweating also occurs during stress or anxiety, especially in the palms of the hands. In this condition, the nerves responsible for controlling the sweat glands become overactive, leading to excessive sweating.

Other possible causes include genetics or conditions such as arthritis, nervous tension, spinal cord injury, and blood disorders.

- Due to the use of certain medications, such as those for diabetes.

Symptom

- Typical symptoms include excessive sweating in the feet, hands, and armpits, or all three.

Sometimes other parts of the body are also affected.

- Shirts, socks, and shoes may become discolored.

Diagnose

Diagnosis is based on medical history and physical examination.

Blood tests may be performed to rule out conditions with symptoms similar to hyperthyroidism.

Treatment

Depending on the severity of the illness and the patient's needs, the doctor will prescribe appropriate treatment, such as:

- Use a topical antiperspirant.

- Botox injections.

- Use internal medicine, herbal remedies, or nerve inhibitors to block the nerves that activate the sweat glands.

- Antidepressants can also reduce sweating, which can help alleviate anxiety.

- If the above measures are ineffective, the doctor will perform endoscopic sympathectomy surgery on the patient. However, this method leaves many side effects such as scarring, infection, permanent excessive sweating in other areas of the body, bleeding, and nerve damage, so it needs to be considered carefully.

Prevention

Avoid deodorants and antiperspirants.

- Drink plenty of water and wear cotton clothing to absorb sweat.

- Change your clothes and socks frequently, and avoid wearing clothing made of nylon or synthetic fibers.

- Take a shower every day.

- To manage stress, it's important to maintain a relaxed state of mind, enhance communication, and overcome personal insecurities.

- Limit spicy foods (onions, chili peppers, garlic, alcohol...).

- Avoid foods high in oil and fat, and foods containing high levels of caffeine.

Maintaining a healthy diet rich in fiber and vitamins can help control sweating.

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