A term relating to a symptom or a condition involving excessive sweating or perspiration, in amounts greater than would be expected considering the temperature of the environment.

The condition may be local or general, and acute or chronic. The major sites for the condition are in the axillae, and on the palms and soles. Possible causes may include: failure of sympathetic nervous system control of sweating; genetic factors; exercise; hot climates; certain drugs, such as antipyretics; underlying infectious and chronic disease, such as tuberculosis and diabetes mellitus (see Diagnostic Code: 7913 Diabetes mellitus); and cardiovascular disorders, such as shock and heart failure. Excess sweating may be increased in rheumatic, malarial, relapsing, and septic fevers, and may also occur in neuralgia and migraine (see Diagnostic Code: 8100 Migraine), and follow the ingestion of hot drinks. The condition may be confined to the hands and feet in hysteria, fright, nervous irritability, and hyperthyroidism (see Diagnostic Code: 7900 Hyperthyroidism). Abnormal sweating may also be associated with hot flashes experienced during menopause.

Excess perspiration may cause the skin in affected areas to become pink or bluish white. In severe cases, the skin may become macerated, cracked, and scaly.

History and physical examination may be helpful in the diagnosis of the condition. Identification of underlying conditions causing hyperhidrosis is necessary as a basis for determining the treatment.

If the sweating is due to a systemic disease, appropriate therapy for the underlying condition is necessary. If the hyperhidrosis is localized, the application of a 20% solution of aluminum chloride hexahydrate in absolute alcohol at night to the axillae, palms, or soles of the feet, and covering the areas tightly with occlusive dressings may be beneficial. The sites to be dressed must be dried thoroughly before applying the solution, and must be washed free of the salt in the morning. Robinul or Robinul forte is an effective systemic therapy for the treatment of hyperhidrosis. In chronic cases that are unresponsive to therapy, regional or thoracic sympathectomy may be required.

Hyperhidrosis may contribute to various skin conditions, such as fungal or pyogenic infections, and contact dermatitis. The perspiration may be so severe that a person becomes embarrassed and limit work and social contacts. Hands affected by hyperhidrosis can interfere with activities, such as writing, driving, taking tests, making presentations, or simply holding objects.

None.

None.