Everyone sweats, but some people may experience hyperhidrosis, a medical condition that causes excessive sweating. Hyperhidrosis is defined as sweating that interrupts daily life and occurs primarily on the armpits, head, face, hands, and feet. It’s hard to know the true statistics due to the embarrassment and stigma surrounding this medical condition. However, according to a 2020 study published by the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, hyperhidrosis is thought to exist in almost 5% of the U.S. population — about 15.3 million people. Hyperhidrosis can cause individuals to feel stress, anxiety, or depression about sweat stains or body odor, resulting in social anxiety, self-isolation, embarrassment, and more.
There are several different potential causes for this condition. Some cases of hyperhidrosis are considered to be genetic, but certain medications can also cause excessive sweating as a side effect. Hyperhidrosis may also be an indication of an underlying health condition, like diabetes, heart disease, hyperthyroidism, menopause, infections, obesity, Parkinson’s disease, and more. If you suspect you are experiencing hyperhidrosis, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine the cause and proper treatment options.
