Polyhidrosis

Polyhidrosis is a medical condition characterized by excessive sweating, which is a more generalized and significant form of hyperhidrosis. Unlike localized hyperhidrosis that affects specific areas like the palms or armpits, polyhidrosis involves profuse sweating over a large portion of the body or the entire body. The underlying causes of polyhidrosis can vary, ranging from underlying medical conditions, medications, or environmental factors to less understood, idiopathic origins. The severity of polyhidrosis can significantly impact a person's quality of life, causing discomfort, social embarrassment, and potentially interfering with daily activities.

Polyhidrosis meaning with examples

• Diagnosed with an underlying thyroid condition, Sarah's polyhidrosis, the overwhelming body-wide sweating, was a constant challenge. It drenched her clothes, requiring frequent changes, and made social interactions awkward. Medication for her thyroid helped to manage the polyhidrosis and improve her comfort significantly, offering her a semblance of normalcy.
• During a heatwave, John experienced polyhidrosis. He would sweat profusely from head to toe despite minimal activity and trying to remain inside. The overwhelming amount of sweat left him feeling weak and fatigued. Eventually, rehydration and spending time in an air-conditioned environment proved vital in alleviating the extreme symptoms.
• A rare side effect of a new medication was polyhidrosis in a patient. This caused the individual to sweat constantly throughout the day and night. They had to manage this excessive sweat to prevent skin irritation and maintain comfort. Ultimately, a switch to a different medication successfully addressed the sweating issue.
• Following a period of significant emotional distress, including several anxiety attacks, Emily developed polyhidrosis. The profuse sweating was linked to the prolonged heightened state of her nervous system. Therapy and anxiety medications worked well to reduce her stress and in turn, the polyhidrosis slowly began to improve and subside.