Summary about Disease
Axillary hyperhidrosis is a medical condition characterized by excessive sweating in the underarm (axillary) area. This sweating is beyond what is needed to regulate body temperature and can be embarrassing and disruptive to daily life. It's not usually related to an underlying medical condition but is often a chronic problem.
Symptoms
The primary symptom is visible, excessive sweating in the armpits. This sweating often occurs even when the individual is not hot or engaging in physical activity. Other symptoms can include:
Sweat-soaked clothing
Anxiety about sweating
Social withdrawal
Skin irritation or maceration
Body odor (bromhidrosis can occur as a secondary problem)
Causes
The exact cause of primary axillary hyperhidrosis is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system, which controls the sweat glands. It is not caused by poor hygiene. Possible contributing factors may include:
Genetics: It can run in families.
Nerve signals: Faulty nerve signals trigger sweat glands to become overactive.
Medicine Used
4. Medicine used Several medical treatments are available, ranging from topical to surgical options. Some common treatments include:
Topical antiperspirants: Containing aluminum chloride.
Prescription creams: Containing glycopyrrolate.
Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections: Injected into the armpits to block the nerves that stimulate sweating.
Oral medications: Anticholinergics.
Microwave thermolysis (miraDry): A device that uses microwave energy to destroy sweat glands.
Surgery: In rare cases, surgical options such as removing sweat glands or severing nerves (sympathectomy) may be considered.
Is Communicable
Axillary hyperhidrosis is not communicable. It is not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
While axillary hyperhidrosis itself is not preventable, there are some things one can do to manage symptoms:
Use strong antiperspirants.
Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing.
Bathe or shower daily.
Change clothes frequently.
Manage stress.
Avoid trigger foods (e.g., caffeine, spicy foods).
How long does an outbreak last?
Axillary hyperhidrosis is often a chronic condition. There isn't a specific "outbreak" with a defined start and end. The excessive sweating can be persistent, with periods of varying intensity. Without treatment, it can continue indefinitely. Treatments can provide temporary or longer-term relief, depending on the method used.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis is typically based on a physical exam and a review of the patient's medical history and symptoms. A doctor may ask questions about the frequency and severity of sweating. Objective tests, such as the starch-iodine test (Minor test) or a sweat test, can be used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the problem. Sometimes, blood or urine tests are ordered to rule out secondary hyperhidrosis, where excessive sweating is a symptom of an underlying medical condition.
Timeline of Symptoms
The onset of symptoms can vary.
Childhood/Adolescence: Often begins during puberty.
Adulthood: Can start later in life in some cases, especially if it is secondary hyperhidrosis.
Progression: The severity of symptoms can fluctuate over time, potentially worsening during periods of stress or hot weather.
Duration: Without treatment, symptoms can persist indefinitely.
Important Considerations
Impact on Quality of Life: Axillary hyperhidrosis can significantly impact self-esteem, social interactions, and overall quality of life.
Secondary Hyperhidrosis: It's important to rule out underlying medical conditions that could be causing excessive sweating.
Treatment Options: Discuss all available treatment options with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action based on individual needs and preferences.
Psychological Support: Consider seeking psychological support if hyperhidrosis is causing significant anxiety or depression.
Skin Care: Be mindful of skin irritation and infection due to the excessive moisture; practice good hygiene and consult a dermatologist if issues arise.