Excessive sweating affects more people

ST. LOUIS, July 28 (UPI) -- A Saint Louis University survey says hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, affects a far larger U.S. population than previously reported.

Prof. Dee Anna Glaser said an estimated 7.8 million people in the United States suffer from sweating condition.

"I was a little surprised at the high percentage of those affected," said Glaser, whose study was based on a national survey of 150,000 households.

The results will be published in the August issue of Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.

People suffering from hyperhidrosis experience excessive sweating on the underarms, palms of hands, soles of feet and the face. Cold, wet handshakes, soiled or damaged shirts, papers and shoes are some of the symptoms. Anxiety and stress often accompany hyperhidrosis.

"The results suggest that in axillary hyperhidrosis, sweating often impedes normal daily activities and can result in occupational, emotional, psychological, social and physical impairment in a substantial proportion of individuals," Glaser said.

The study said females are far more likely to discuss their condition with a health care professional than men -- 47.5 percent compared to 28.6 percent of men.