Are you sweating too much? You could have a condition called hyperhidrosis.

Everyone sweats, sweating is a natural and healthy part of your life. Your body cools itself down by producing sweat when it’s too hot. Several factors influence how much people sweat including your gender, genetics and your fitness level. But if you are feeling like you are over producing sweat it could be a condition called hyperhidrosis.

HOW TO TELL IF YOU’RE SWEATING TOO MUCH
There are two types of hyperhidrosis - primary and secondary. Primary hyperhidrosis is a medical condition that causes you to sweat up to 5x the amount required to regulate your body’s temperature. It usually affects a specific part of your body, such as your armpits, feet or hands. Secondary hyperhidrosis causes you to sweat excessively all over your entire body. It’s usually a side effect of another medical condition or could be from a medication. People with secondary hyperhidrosis are also more likely to sweat while they’re sleeping.

It’s important to figure the root of the reason of what is causing the hyperhidrosis.

HEREDITARY CONDITION
Primary hyperhidrosis is often hereditary. Doctors aren’t sure exactly what causes primary hyperhidrosis, but evidence shows that people are more likely to have this condition if it runs in the family. Most people start seeing symptoms around puberty.

CERTAIN MEDICATIONS
Several types of prescription and over the counter medications can cause secondary hyperhidrosis. Excessive sweating is a common side effect of some antidepressants. Be sure to check the label.

DIABETES
Excessive sweating is also linked to low blood glucose levels. So when your blood sugar drops drastically, it triggers a “fight or flight” response in your body. Your body produces more norepinephrine and adrenaline, which can cause heavy sweating.

HYPERTHYROIDISM
Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid creates too much of the hormones T4, T3 or both. High amounts of T4 and T3 send your body into a hypermetabolic state, which causes your heart rate and blood pressure to shoot up and makes you sweat more.

OBESITY
People with a higher body mass tend to sweat more. Fat acts an insulator to your body and raises its core temperature. When your body temperature is higher, your body sweats more to cool down.

TREATMENTS
In order to treat hyperhidrosis properly it’s important to make an appointment with a dermatologist to see whether topicals, oral medications or Botox would be the right fix for you.

Other conditions that can cause secondary hyperhidrosis include menopause, heart disease and adrenal gland disorders. If you think you might have primary or secondary hyperhidrosis give us a call at 517-993-5900 to schedule an appointment.

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About the Author

Natacia Hanson, PA-C is a board certified Physician Assistant. She received her Bachelor of Science degree with honors from Michigan State University. She then went on to complete her Master of Science Degree in Physician Assistant Studies at Wayne State University. She has several years of dermatology experience and specializes in medical and cosmetic dermatology. She is highly skilled in skin cancer detection and sees patients for general skin conditions of all skin types. She is also surgically trained and skilled in dermatologic surgery and procedures. Natacia enjoys helping patients refresh their appearance with the use of lasers, dermal fillers, Botox, and Kybella. She is an avid believer in patient education and enjoys teaching about skin care and anti-aging therapies. Natacia is an active member of Michigan Dermatology Physician Assistants, Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants, Michigan Academy of Physician Assistants and American Academy of Physician Assistants.