The Difference Between Primary and Secondary Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis, the medical term for excessive sweating, is typically categorized into two main types. This distinction is vital for determining the root cause and the most effective treatment plan.
Primary Focal Hyperhidrosis
This is the most common form of the condition and is characterized by excessive sweating that is not triggered by a specific medical condition. It is thought to be caused by faulty nerve signals that cause the sweat glands to become overactive. The sweating is usually localized to specific areas, such as the palms of the hands, the soles of the feet, the armpits, and sometimes the face. Symptoms often appear before the age of 25 and typically occur on both sides of the body. Interestingly, this type of sweating usually does not happen during sleep, distinguishing it from night sweats.
Secondary Generalized Hyperhidrosis
In contrast, secondary hyperhidrosis is the result of an underlying medical condition or is a side effect of a medication. This form of excessive sweating can affect the entire body and may occur during sleep. The profuse sweating is a symptom of the primary problem, and managing the underlying cause is the key to resolving the issue. It is this type of hyperhidrosis that prompts the question: what illness makes you sweat profusely?
Medical Conditions That Cause Excessive Sweating
Many different illnesses and conditions can lead to secondary hyperhidrosis. These can range from hormonal imbalances to more serious systemic diseases.
Endocrine and Hormonal Issues
- Hyperthyroidism: An overactive thyroid gland produces excess thyroid hormones, which can speed up the body's metabolism and lead to a feeling of being overheated and cause profuse sweating.
- Diabetes: When blood sugar levels drop too low (hypoglycemia), the body's stress response system is activated, releasing hormones like adrenaline that cause sweating.
- Menopause: Hot flashes are a classic symptom of menopause, characterized by a sudden feeling of intense heat and flushing, often accompanied by excessive sweating, particularly at night.
Infections
Certain infections, particularly those that cause a persistent fever, can trigger profuse sweating, especially night sweats.
- Tuberculosis: This bacterial infection is one of the most common causes of significant night sweats.
- HIV/AIDS: Opportunistic infections and the virus itself can cause night sweats and fever.
- Endocarditis: An infection of the inner lining of the heart or its valves can also result in persistent night sweats.
Neurological Disorders
- Parkinson's Disease: A disorder of the central nervous system that affects movement, Parkinson's can also disrupt the autonomic nervous system, leading to hyperhidrosis.
- Autonomic Neuropathy: Damage to the nerves that control involuntary bodily functions, including sweating, can cause abnormal sweating patterns.
- Stroke: Brain injuries from a stroke can disrupt the temperature-regulating center of the brain, leading to excessive sweating.
Cancers
In rare cases, profuse sweating can be an early sign of certain cancers, particularly those affecting the blood cells.
- Lymphoma: Cancers of the lymphatic system, such as Hodgkin's disease, can cause fever, unintentional weight loss, and drenching night sweats.
- Leukemia: This blood and bone marrow cancer can also be associated with excessive sweating.
Psychological Conditions
- Anxiety Disorders: Intense anxiety and panic attacks can trigger the body's fight-or-flight response, resulting in a surge of adrenaline that causes heart palpitations and profuse sweating.
Medications That Trigger Sweating
It's not always an illness that is to blame. Many prescription and over-the-counter medications can have excessive sweating as a side effect. It is important to review your current medications if you experience this symptom.
- Antidepressants: Many Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), such as sertraline (Zoloft) and escitalopram (Lexapro), can cause increased sweating.
- NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen and naproxen can sometimes induce sweating, especially when used to treat fever.
- Opioids: Pain relievers like morphine and oxycodone are known to cause sweating as a side effect.
- Diabetes medications: Medications that lower blood sugar, including insulin and sulfonylureas, can cause hypoglycemia-related sweating.
Comparison of Hyperhidrosis Types
| Feature | Primary Focal Hyperhidrosis | Secondary Generalized Hyperhidrosis |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Overactive nerves, often genetic | Underlying medical condition or medication |
| Location | Localized (hands, feet, armpits, face) | Generalized (whole body) |
| Timing | Often occurs during waking hours | Can happen at any time, including during sleep (night sweats) |
| Associated Symptoms | Typically none, aside from emotional distress | Accompanied by other symptoms of the underlying cause (e.g., fever, weight loss) |
When to See a Doctor
While some level of sweating is normal, there are specific signs that indicate you should seek medical attention. If you experience any of the following, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider:
- Profuse sweating that comes on suddenly and without a clear trigger.
- Night sweats that are drenching and persistent.
- Sweating that is accompanied by other unexplained symptoms like weight loss, fever, or pain.
- Hyperhidrosis that significantly interferes with your daily life, work, or social interactions.
- Your sweating is localized to only one side of your body.
Your doctor can perform a physical exam, review your medical history, and order tests to rule out or diagnose underlying conditions. For more information on hyperhidrosis, you can visit the International Hyperhidrosis Society.
Conclusion
Profuse sweating is a symptom that can point to a range of underlying issues, from common conditions like menopause and anxiety to more serious concerns like infections or cancer. While primary hyperhidrosis is not caused by another illness, secondary hyperhidrosis is a direct result of an underlying medical problem or a medication side effect. By paying close attention to your symptoms and patterns of sweating, you and your doctor can work together to determine the cause and develop an effective management strategy. Early diagnosis is key to addressing the root cause and significantly improving your quality of life.
