Hyperhidrosis May Be Tied to Several Psychiatric Disorders

Patients with hyperhidrosis may be more likely to have certain psychiatric disorders than the general population, according to new findings presented at the 2019 American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting.

In a study of 500 participants with hyperhidrosis, researchers found that approximately 13.8% of participants had anxiety, while 12.4% had depression, and 6.4% had attention deficit disorder (ADD).

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“We need to proactively ask our patients with hyperhidrosis if they suffer with or have symptoms of anxiety, depression or ADD,” said Dee Anna Glaser, MD, FAAD, professor, interim chair and director of clinical research and aesthetic and laser surgery in the department of dermatology at St. Louis University School of Medicine, in a press release. “We can let them know that’s pretty common and help them find care from the appropriate professionals.”

The study findings also demonstrated a correlation between mental health conditions and the number of body locations affected, but not for hyperhidrosis severity or body location. Further research will be needed to clarify the association of hyperhidrosis with mental health conditions.

Hyperhidrosis most commonly develops among adolescents and young adults, who can be especially prone to developing mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety, Dr Glaser noted. However, uncovering a potential association between hyperhidrosis and ADD was a surprising finding, she said.

“I think we need to look into that more and connect with individuals who have experience with ADD and together understand what that link may be,” said Dr Glaser in a press release.

—Christina Vogt

Reference:

Research suggests connection between excessive sweating and mental health conditions [press release]. Washington, DC. American Academy of Dermatology. March 1, 2019. Accessed on March 1, 2019.