Hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, is a common skin condition which can lead to psychological distress and negative self-view. Primary hyperhidrosis is defined as excessive sweating of certain body areas without psychological reasons. Hyperhidrotic patients report a high rate of psychological strain and impaired quality of life due to the social and psychological implications of primary hyperhidrosis. This article will review a 2014 study which aims to investigate the relationship between hyperhidrosis and different psychological/physiological aspects of chronic stress as a cofactor for the etiology of depression. This study compares 40 hyperhidrotic subjects to 40 age- and sex-matched healthy control subjects. Tools used in this study to measure responses are the Tier Inventory of Chronic Stress (TICS), the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II) and the Screening for Somatoform Disorders (SOMS-2). The cortisol awakening response of each patient was also analyzed as a psychological stress correlate. Below is a summary of the study results:
Hyperhidrosis Impact Questionnaire
47.5% of subjects reported the onset of their hyperhidrosis at an age between 12-17 years. 35% were over 17 years old, 10% were between 6-11 years old, and 7.5% were below the age of 6 at onset of disease. The body regions most frequently affected were the armpits (50%), palms (25%), and the face (17.5%).
Tier Inventory of Chronic Stress (TICS)
The hyperhidrotic group of patients showed significantly higher values for “lack of social recognition”. 4 other scales, uncorrected, showed “social overload”, “excessive demands from work”, and “chronic worrying” reflected a trend towards more chronic stress in the hyperhidrotic patients.
Beck Depression Inventory
As measured by the beck depression inventory, 24 out of 40 hyperhidrotic patients (60%) reached total sum scores equal or greater than 9, which represents the screening’s cut-off for an indication of depression. In comparison, 4 out of 40 (10%) of healthy control subjects provided a sum of 9 or greater. Overall, the hyperhidrosis showed a significantly increased risk and prevalence of depression. Comparing only axillary hyperhidrotics to the control group produces even larger differences: without correction, axillary hyperhidrotics would have a higher BDI-II sum score than other hyperhidrotics, illustrating that axillary hyperhidrosis can often be the most psychologically debilitating location.
Screening for Somatoform Disorders
No significant differences found.
Cortisol Levels
No significant differences found.
Resources:
1) Gross KM, Schote AB, Schneider KK, Schulz A, Meyer J. Elevated social stress levels and depressive symptoms in primary hyperhidrosis. PLoS One. 2014;9(3):e92412. Published 2014 Mar 19. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0092412
Hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, is a medical condition that can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life. While sweating is a normal bodily function that helps regulate body temperature, people with hyperhidrosis produce sweat in amounts far greater than is necessary for cooling. This can lead to feelings of embarrassment, anxiety, and isolation, as well as physical discomfort and skin problems. Understanding the psychosocial impact of hyperhidrosis is crucial for providing effective treatment and support for those affected by this condition.
One of the most common psychosocial effects of hyperhidrosis is embarrassment. Excessive sweating can lead to visible sweat stains on clothing, particularly in the underarm area, which can be embarrassing and make individuals feel self-conscious in social situations. This can lead to a reluctance to participate in activities that may cause sweating, such as exercise or social events, which can further impact their quality of life. In addition to embarrassment, hyperhidrosis can also lead to feelings of anxiety and low self-esteem. The constant worry about sweating can cause individuals to feel anxious in social situations, leading to avoidance behaviors and a reduced quality of life. This can also impact relationships, as individuals may avoid intimacy or close physical contact due to their sweating. Hyperhidrosis can also have a significant impact on a person's social life and relationships. The fear of sweating can lead to social withdrawal and isolation, as individuals may avoid social situations where sweating may occur. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression, further impacting their mental health and well-being.
Hyperhidrosis can also have a physical impact on a person's skin. Excessive sweating can lead to skin irritation, rashes, and fungal infections, particularly in areas where sweat tends to accumulate, such as the armpits, groin, and feet. This can cause discomfort and further impact a person's quality of life.
In terms of treatment, there are several options available for hyperhidrosis, including antiperspirants, medication, and in severe cases, surgery. Antiperspirants containing aluminum chloride are often the first line of treatment and can be effective for many people. However, for those with more severe cases of hyperhidrosis, other treatments such as oral medications or botulinum toxin injections may be necessary.
It is important for healthcare providers to recognize the psychosocial impact of hyperhidrosis and provide appropriate support and treatment options for those affected by this condition. This may include counseling or therapy to help individuals cope with the emotional effects of hyperhidrosis, as well as education and support groups to help them manage their condition.
References:
www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/hyperhidrosis-overview.