We naturally perspire, all through the day, to help our body regulate its temperature. In fact sweating is necessary for the healthy physiological functioning of our bodies. It is a mechanism in which fluid containing salts is released, by which the body is able to dispel heat produced by exercise and hot environments.

However, in some people, this natural perspiration is excessive, much beyond what is vital to cool the body. This condition is called hyperhidrosis. Although we do not know the precise cause for hyperhidrosis, it is commonly assumed to be a result of the over activity of the hypothalamus, the centre that controls the body temperature in the brain, or the sympathetic nerves, which run along the vertebra of the spine in the chest cavity.

Did you know that there are over five million sweat glands, distributed all over our body? Or that over two thirds of them, roughly 700 glands per square centimeter, are found on our palms alone? These are controlled and maintained by the sympathetic nervous system, which is an independent part of the nervous system, and over which we cannot exercise any control. This chain of nerves controls the aprocrine and the eccrine glands, which are responsible for perspiration of the entire body. Over stimulation of these nerves manifests itself as excessive sweating. The part of the body that is affected depends on which part of the nerves is over active.

Hyperhidrosis maybe generalized or focal. In focal hyperhidrosis, most often, the hands (called Palmer Hyperhidrosis) and the feet (called Planter Hyperhidrosis) are found to be affected. In some people however, it may be localized to the face and the armpit (axillae) area. Small changes like an increase in air temperature, exercise, fever, anxiety or even spicy food, can set off an attack of sweating. It usually reduces during the night and may completely disappear while the person is asleep. Focal hyperhidrosis usually manifests itself in childhood or adolescence. General hyperhidrosis, in which sweating occurs all over the body, can be caused by diabetes, chronic infectious diseases, hyperthyroidism, menopause and even obesity.

Whichever area is affected, hyperhidrosis is usually psychologically distressing. It is an embarrassing disorder and can hamper many daily activities. Even simple tasks like shaking hands or writing neatly can become a problem. Clothing may have to be changed several times a day. It can also lead to social anxiety disorder. However, patients affected by hyperhidrosis are said to have a physiological condition and are rarely diagnosed with psychiatric disorders.

The unfortunate part is that hyperhidrosis is not a temporary condition. Patients usually suffer from it for many years, sometimes right from adolescence, before seeking help or treatment. The good news is that there are many different methods to treat hyperhidrosis, right from herbal mediations to oral medications, lotions and even injections of botox. The treatment naturally depends on the severity of the problem.

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