What is hyperhidrosis
Sweating is normal and involved in body temperature regulation. It is triggered by exercise and anxiety.
Hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating of the palms, arm-pits, face or feet beyond that amount needed to cool the body. It occurs at inappropriate times in specific areas of the body.
Hyperhidrosis can affect 0.5% - 1% of the population and can be a distressing and genuinely disabling condition. It usually manifests in the 20s and 30s.
The condition causes social problems and sufferers may avoid situations where they have to shake hands. It can also cause professional problems.
Most cases have no known cause. In 60% of cases the hyperhidrosis affects hands and feet. In 30-40% the arm-pits are primarily involved - here the skin may become macerated causing infections and rashes. Hyperhidrosis may also be generalised over the whole body.