Increased Sweating – Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Increased Sweating – Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment at Emirates Hospitals Group

Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) can affect daily life, causing discomfort and social anxiety. It may result from overactive sweat glands, medical conditions, or hormonal imbalances. Persistent sweating may indicate an underlying health issue requiring medical evaluation.

Causes of Increased Sweating

• Primary Hyperhidrosis – Overactive sweat glands, often affecting hands, feet, underarms, or face without an underlying medical condition.
• Secondary Hyperhidrosis – Caused by conditions such as infections, thyroid disorders, diabetes, or menopause.
• Medications – Certain drugs, including antidepressants and pain relievers, may trigger excessive sweating.
• Hormonal Imbalances – Pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid dysfunction can lead to increased perspiration.
• Infections & Fever – Viral and bacterial infections can cause temporary excessive sweating.
• Nervous System Disorders – Parkinson’s disease or autonomic nerve dysfunction may contribute to abnormal sweating patterns.

Diagnosis of Increased Sweating

Evaluation typically includes:

• Medical History & Physical Examination – Assessing sweating patterns and triggers.
• Sweat Tests – Measuring sweat production to determine the severity of hyperhidrosis.
• Blood Tests – Checking for thyroid disorders, diabetes, or infections.
• Imaging Tests – In rare cases, MRI or CT scans may help identify underlying neurological conditions.

Treatment for Increased Sweating

If excessive sweating persists, a specialist consultation is recommended to explore further treatment options and address potential underlying conditions.

Treatment depends on the cause and severity:

• Antiperspirants – Prescription-strength antiperspirants help reduce excessive sweating.
• Medications – Oral medications to block nerve signals that trigger sweating.
• Botox Injections – Used to temporarily reduce sweat gland activity in targeted areas.
• Iontophoresis – A non-invasive treatment using electrical currents to reduce sweating.
• Surgical Options – In severe cases, procedures like sweat gland removal or nerve surgery may be considered.
• Lifestyle Modifications – Wearing breathable fabrics, staying hydrated, and managing stress can help control excessive sweating.