Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition characterized by chronic, excessive sweating beyond what is necessary to regulate body temperature.
It can affect specific body parts or the entire body (generalized hyperhidrosis). Sweat is produced by eccrine glands, which are present all over the body. This condition can significantly impact a person’s emotional, social, and professional life.
You may experience sweating:
- At rest
- In cold weather
- Without any obvious trigger
Types of Hyperhidrosis
1. Primary Focal Hyperhidrosis
- Most common type
- Often genetic (runs in families)
- Affects:
- Underarms
- Hands (palms)
- Feet (soles)
- Face
- Usually begins before age 25
2. Secondary Generalized Hyperhidrosis
- Caused by underlying medical conditions or medications
- Leads to widespread sweating
- Common causes include:
- Diabetes
- Parkinson’s disease
- Certain medications
Common Symptoms
The main symptom is excessive sweating, which may include:
- Constant wetness on skin
- Damp clothing
- Sweat dripping from the face or forehead
Associated Skin Issues
Over time, hyperhidrosis may lead to:
- Skin irritation and itching
- Body odour (due to bacteria + sweat)
- Cracked or peeling skin (especially feet)
Common Triggers
Certain factors can worsen sweating:
- Stress, anxiety, or nervousness
- Hot or humid weather
- Physical activity
- Spicy, fatty, or sugary foods
- High-protein diet
- Certain medications
Medical Conditions Linked to Excessive Sweating
- Acromegaly
- Tuberculosis
- Anxiety disorders
- Cancer
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Menopause
- Obesity
- Parkinson’s disease
Possible Complications
If untreated, hyperhidrosis may lead to:
- Skin infections
- Skin discoloration or damage
- Cracks and wrinkles
- Maceration (soft, moist, fragile skin)
Diagnosis
A healthcare provider diagnoses hyperhidrosis based on:
- Physical examination
- Medical history
- Symptom evaluation
Tests for Hyperhidrosis
- Starch-Iodine Test: Sweat areas turn dark blue
- Paper Test: Measures sweat quantity
- Blood/Imaging Tests: Identify underlying causes
Management & Treatment
Treatment depends on:
- Severity
- Area affected
- Underlying cause
Home Care Tips
You can manage symptoms at home by:
- Bathing regularly
- Wearing breathable fabrics like cotton
Homeopathic Approach to Hyperhidrosis
Homeopathy offers a gentle and holistic approach to managing excessive sweating.
Common Remedies
- Calcarea Carbonica – Cold, damp sweaty feet with weakness
- Silicea – Sweating of head and feet with strong odour
- Sulphur – General or localized sweating with anxiety
- Acidum Fluoricum – Profuse, troublesome sweating
- Thuja Occidentalis – Sweating on uncovered parts, sour smell
- Petroleum – Foul-smelling foot perspiration
Benefits of Homeopathy
- Safe and gentle
- No harmful side effects
- Suitable for all age groups
- Helps improve immunity
- Reduces recurrence
- Provides long-term relief
Consult your homeopathic physician for all your ailments.
About the Authors
Dr. Geeta Rani Arora, BHMS, MD
Dr. Geeta Rani Arora is a senior homeopathic practitioner with over two decades of clinical experience. She has presented papers at national and international conferences, including LIGA and LMHI forums, and serves as an Honorary Editor of The Asian Journal of Homeopathy.
She is an honorary member of the Japan Homeopathic Medical Association and has received several professional awards. Dr. Arora also has more than a decade of experience in regulatory affairs and homeopathic pharmaceutical manufacturing.
She is a faculty member at the London College of Homeopathy, UK, and a Member of the Faculty of Homeopathy, London. She practices in Kalkaji, New Delhi, and offers both online and in clinic consultations six days a week with a dedicated medical team.
Dr. Arti Goyal, BHMS, MD
Dr. Arti Goyal is a compassionate and dedicated homeopathic physician with over 10 years of clinical experience. She is a former Research Associate and Senior Research Fellow (Homeopathy) at the Central Council for Research in Homeopathy (CCRH).
With more than five years of formal research experience, she combines clinical expertise with evidence-informed homeopathic care. Dr. Goyal specializes in constitutional prescribing and personalized treatment plans.
She offers consultations both online and in-person at her clinic in Kalkaji and has co-authored several research papers and publications. She is experienced in managing both common and complex chronic conditions through holistic, patient-centered care.
DISCLAIMER : Information provided above is for educational purposes only. You may consult a medical professional or healthcare provider for any medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.