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Condition

Pediatric Sweaty Palms (Palmar Hyperhidrosis)

Sweaty palms, or palmar hyperhidrosis, is a medical condition in which a person sweats excessively and unpredictably from their hands. People with palmar hyperhidrosis may sweat even when the temperature is cool or when they are at rest.

Sweating helps the body stay cool. In most cases, it is perfectly natural. People sweat more in warm temperatures, when they exercise, or in response to situations that make them nervous, angry, embarrassed, or afraid.

However, excessive hand sweating occurs without such triggers. Those with palmar hyperhidrosis appear to have overactive sweat glands. The uncontrollable sweating can lead to significant discomfort, both physical and emotional.

Hyperhidrosis of the hands, feet, and armpits, this group is called primary hyperhidrosis, affects 2-3 percent of the population, yet less than 40 percent of patients with this condition seek medical advice. In the majority of primary hyperhidrosis cases, no cause can be found. It seems to run in families.

If the sweating occurs as a result of another medical condition, it is called secondary hyperhidrosis. The sweating may be all over the body, or it may be in one area.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are some conditions that cause secondary hyperhidrosis (sweaty palms)?

What are some tests for sweaty palms (palmar hyperhidrosis)?

What is the treatment for sweaty palms (palmer hyperhidrosis)?

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PATIENT STORY

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Providers Who Treat Sweaty Palms (Palmar Hyperhidrosis)

    Departments that Treat Sweaty Palms (Palmar Hyperhidrosis)

    Dermatology

    The Division of Dermatology at Children's National Hospital continues to expand services as more families seek our expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the skin, hair and nails.