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Whilst doctors aren't 100% sure why excessive
sweating, or hyperhidrosis, starts, it is widely believed the problem is most likely a
genetic one.
The occurrence of hyperhidrosis has been
linked to over-activity in the sympathetic nervous system. It can be broken down into two
different types:
Primary Focal
hyperhidrosis – where there are specific
sites on the body that suffer from excessive sweating, such as armpits, hands and feet. This type
hyperhidrosis is not caused by any other problem and the most likely reason for it is a genetic
one, which has been shown in the majority of these types of cases.
Secondary Generalised
hyperhidrosis – where sweating appears on
most parts of the body. This type of hyperhidrosis is usually caused by another medical problem
such as obesity, hyperthyroidism, menopause, or side effects of medication, though it is not
always possible to find the exact cause.
As sweating is natural and happens to all of us,
it can be difficult to difficult to determine what is excessive. If you answer yes to most of
the following questions, you might be suffering from hyperhidrosis:
- Do you often thinking about how much/whether you are sweating during the day?
- Do you avoid certain types of activity for fear of
sweating?
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- Does
concerns over your sweating dictate what clothes you wear?
- Does
your fear of sweating determine what you do and where you go socially?
- Do you ever change
clothes during the day due to excessive sweating?
- Do you
carry anti-perspirant/deodorant or other products with you and apply regularly during the day?
If you think you suffer from either type of hyperhidrosis, a doctor or qualified dermatologist should be able to
help with a diagnosis and looking at potential treatments.
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