Primary versus Secondary Hyperhidrosis

Excessive sweating is a condition known as hyperhidrosis.  There are two types of hyperhidrosis, known as primary hyperhidrosis and secondary hyperhidrosis.  If you experience excessive sweating, it is important to know the difference because the treatment is different for each type.

Primary Hyperhidrosis

Primary hyperhidrosis occurs when there is excessive sweating that is not due to a separate medical condition or medications.  Primary hyperhidrosis may lead to sweaty underarms, sweaty palms, and sweaty feet.  There are surgical and non-surgical treatment options that can be used to stop sweaty palms, stop sweaty hands, stop sweaty feet, and stop excessive sweating.  Characteristics of primary hyperhidrosis include the following:

• Excessive sweating in a specific area: face, palms, or feet
• Excessive sweating starts at a young age
• Sweating is relieved at night and worse during the day

Secondary Hyperhidrosis

Secondary hyperhidrosis occurs when there is excessive sweating that is caused by an underlying illness.  The treatment for secondary hyperhidrosis is based on treating the underlying disorder.  Characteristics of secondary hyperhidrosis include the following:

• General excessive sweating: the entire body, not just one area
• Excessive sweating that starts after the age of 25
• Excessive sweating at night and during the day

Disorders that may lead to secondary hyperhidrosis include:

• Infection
• HIV
• Endocarditis
• Lymphoma
• Hyperthyroidism