Sweat Hand: Causes, Complications and Treatment

Palmar Hyperhidrosis, commonly known as ‘sweat hand,’ is a medical condition characterized mainly by excessive and unpredictable sweating in the hands. While sweating is a natural and necessary body function that helps regulate body temperature, excessive sweating, especially in the hands, can become a problematic condition impacting various aspects of an individual’s life.

The leading cause of sweat hand has not been definitively identified; however, it seems to be linked to an overactive sympathetic nervous system. Stress and emotional factors can trigger sweating, but people with this condition often sweat heavily even when they are relaxed or cool.

Aside from causing physical discomfort, sweat hand can pose psychosocial difficulties for the people who suffer from it. It can lead to severe embarrassment, social anxiety, emotional distress, and it can affect everyday activities like writing, typing, or holding common objects. The condition often starts in childhood or adolescence and continues into adulthood.

Certain temporary solutions like antiperspirants and iontophoresis can help control the symptoms of sweat hand. Antiperspirants, typically containing aluminum salts, can be applied to the hands to block sweat ducts temporary. Ilsontophoresis involves passing a small electric current through the skin to neutralize the connections between the nerves and sweat glands. Definitive solutions may include Botox injections or a procedure called endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS), which involve cutting or clamping the sympathetic nerves that trigger sweating.

Now, how is excessive sweating treated? The course of treatment for excessive sweating largely depends on its severity and the patient’s response to initial treatments. Mild cases of excessive sweating may be controlled with over-the-counter antiperspirants, prescription-strength antiperspirants containing aluminum chloride, or prescription creams for those who are sensitive to other treatments. Medications that block the nerves that cause sweating, procedures utilizing laser or microwave energy, and skin treatments can also be used.

For more severe cases where these treatments do not provide relief, Botox injections, anticholinergic drugs, or surgical interventions may be considered. Botox injections temporarily block the nerves that trigger your sweat glands. Anticholinergic drugs prevent acetylcholine, a chemical your body produces, from working on the nerves that trigger your sweat glands. Surgical intervention is typically considered a last resort treatment as it has the potential for serious side effects, including compensatory sweating in other parts of the body.

Those dealing with excessive hand sweat should consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist. They can provide a comprehensive diagnosis, advise on the most suitable treatment options based on individual cases, and help patients manage the psychosocial issues associated with sweat hand effectively. It’s vital to remember that although ‘sweat hand’ is a challenging condition, it’s manageable, and there are options that can provide relief.