The Sweaty Situation

If you have been around me, then you would have already asked me why my palms are sweaty. I have been answering that question for more than 20 years now. It's due to a medical condition called Hyperhidrosis. Since it is observed in only 3% of the people worldwide and most of the people I meet on daily basis are from rest 97% of world population, getting the question "Why you are sweating sooo much?!" at least 3 times a week is quite normal.

It doesn't stop there. The Why question is always followed by what, when and how questions. That made me list down a few of the FAQs(Frequently Asked Questions) faced by a person with Hyperhidrosis.

1. Why are you sweating so much?

Because I have something called Hyperhidrosis. Wikipedia defines it as a condition characterized by abnormally increased sweating, in excess of that required for regulation of body temperature.

2. Okay, but why only hands?

Because I am born with a hell lot of sweat glands on my hand.

3. Is it some kind of disease? Have you tried XYZ type of medicine, it might work.

No, it is caused by over-activity of the sympathetic nervous system(I have no idea what that means). Yes, I have consulted all type of doctors already, nobody seems to have a working fix.

4. I haven't seen anybody like this.

You should try to socialize and meet more people. You will get, eventually.

5. Why don't to you try surgical procedures?

I don't like stitches on my hand, unlike Frankenstein's monster. Also, not a fan of lasers and Botox injections.

6. How do you feel when it sweats? Does it pain or something?

Do you feel pain when you sweat? I don't.

7. Do you face difficulties with sweaty palms?

Most of the fingerprint sensors will not recognize wet fingers, notebooks are not expected to have waterproof papers. Still not convinced? Try operating your phone and laptop with wet palms. You'll know.

Let me know if you are one of the kind and face questions like this often by tweeting me @vishwasnavadak.

More Gyan:

  1. A Study on the Impact of Hyperhidrosis
  2. Hyperhidrosis, Wikipedia
  3. Hyperhidrosis, WebMD