Excessive Sweating: This Rare Genetic Condition Could Be The Cause

Sweating is a natural process via which our bodies cool down when there is a rise in body temperature. But when you sweat excessively, even when you are idle, it could indicate a rare genetic disorder.

Hyperhidrosis aka excessive sweating is a rare disorder characterized by excessive sweating on the palms, soles, armpit, groin area and/or the areas under the breasts. Several researchers have pointed to a genetic origin but the gene locus hasn't yet been identified.

Excessive sweating is of two kinds- primary and secondary hyperhidrosis. While what causes the former is unknown, the latter is a commonly reported condition that occurs due to an underlying health condition like endocrine disorder, tumor, menopause or as a side effect to certain medications.

Focal hyperhidrosis is a genetic condition that begins around puberty or even earlier and the affected individuals experience episodes of excessive sweating at least once every week and sometimes even on an everyday basis. Individuals with hyperhidrosis might not sweat all the time, but will be sweating at odd times, without a reason, even when they are not stressed or exercising.

Individuals who sweat excessively might know that there’s something wrong, but do not know how prevalent the condition is. And while some are embarrassed by it, some others don’t recognize that there are treatments. Don’t worry, here is a list of treatment options which can help manage hyperhidrosis effectively:

• Topical lotions containing aluminum chloride can help reduce excessive sweating in your armpits.
• Oral medications containing anticholinergic agents help block the neurotransmitters responsible for excessive sweating. It helps individuals with facial sweating as well as those who sweat excessively in other areas. But because of their adverse effects, these medications aren’t recommended for all.
• Antiperspirant products can be spread on areas of excessive sweating including feet, hands, face, and underarms.
• Underarm wipes containing anticholinergic agents that block excessive sweating can be used under the arms as well as other regions.
• Botox injections have become a popular treatment for many people with this condition. It involves injecting botox or botulinum toxin into the overly sweating regions of the body to paralyze the sweat glands for almost a year. It is FDA-approved for use in the underarms and most often also covered by health insurance.
• Other treatment options include precision laser treatments, surgical options like endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy, iontophoresis, microwave therapy, and high-intensity focused fractional radiofrequency micro-needling.