Hand Sweating: What You Need to Know

Do you often find your hands are wet and slippery due to sweat? Even when the weather isn’t particularly hot and you aren’t physically exerting yourself? If so, you might be dealing with a condition called palmar hyperhidrosis. This is a disorder characterised by excessive sweating in the hands. This condition usually begins around adolescence, and while it is not dangerous, it can be bothersome and potentially embarrassing for people who suffer from it.

Sweating is a natural process that helps the body regulate its internal temperature. Sweat is primarily water, with small amounts of chemicals such as ammonia and urea, which are waste products, as well as electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and calcium. Sweat is produced by glands in the skin, and its creation is controlled by the autonomic nervous system, which responds to signals such as heat, exercise, and stress.

Problems arise when the body sweats too much, such as in the case of palmar hyperhidrosis. This hyperactivity in the sweat glands is often due to an overactive sympathetic nervous system, typically an inherited trait. It is not dangerous, but excessive hand sweating can make daily tasks difficult, and it can sometimes lead to psychological distress.

Why Do Hands Sweat Excessively?

The exact underlying cause of palmar hyperhidrosis is unknown, but it appears to be influenced by genetic, neurological, and environmental factors. Often, it is part of a family history of excessive sweating, which suggests a genetic predisposition to hyperactive sweat glands.

Hyperhidrosis can also occur as a result of another condition, such as diabetes, menopause, thyroid disorders, and even certain types of cancer. This is known as secondary hyperhidrosis. In such cases, treating the underlying cause can often help to mitigate the excessive sweating.

Moreover, some people simply sweat more than others. If you have hyperhidrosis, the nerves that signal sweat glands are overactive, and this means you produce more sweat. There does not appear to be any health risk associated with this condition.

Treatment for Hyperhidrosis Hands

Various treatments are currently available for managing excessive hand sweating. They range from conservative approaches, such as using antiperspirants, iontophoresis (a treatment wherein a weak electric current is sent through the skin to reduce sweating), and Botox injections, to more invasive surgical treatments.

Antiperspirants containing aluminum chloride can be applied to the hands to reduce sweating, while Botox (botulinum toxin) injections can block the nerves that cause the sweat glands to overreact.

Iontophoresis is another option. During this treatment, the hands are placed into a bowl of water, and a weak electrical current is passed through, which can help to lower sweat production.

For severe hyperhidrosis cases, a procedure called sympathectomy may be recommended. In this surgery, the nerves that control sweat glands in the hands are cut. However, this procedure should be considered as a last resort due to potential complications such as compensatory sweating (excessive sweating in other areas of the body).

It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss all the potential risks and benefits of various treatments tailored to your circumstances. You can then make a well-informed decision about the best approach for managing your condition.