Is Hyperhidrosis Genetic?

Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition characterized by excessive sweating. This sweating most often occurs on the hands, feet, underarms, or crotch region, but excessive sweating really can happen all over the body. It is estimated that 5% of the global population suffers from this condition, yet it is often undetected, undiagnosed, and therefore, untreated. It is important to understand the signs, symptoms, and causes of this condition so that you can be better equipped with the knowledge it takes to identify, understand, and treat hyperhidrosis in yourself or your loved ones. Fortunately, the experts at The Center for Hyperhidrosis are here to help!

First and Foremost…Is Hyperhidrosis Genetic?

There have been a number of studies on the origins and causes of hyperhidrosis, however, it is not entirely clear or certain where this condition stems from directly. There is sufficient evidence that the condition is hereditary though. 

So yes, hyperhidrosis is thought to be a reflection of inherited genetic traits. So if you have a parent with hyperhidrosis, the odds are higher that you will too. Researchers even believe that hyperhidrosis is a dominant trait, increasing the chances that it will be inherited. 

Statistically speaking, it is estimated that between 35-55% of people with hyperhidrosis have at least one family member that also has the condition. Some studies even suggest that hyperhidrosis can be passed down through generations. It is thought that these percentages are likely much higher in reality, but because of the stigma and embarrassment surrounding the conditions, many cases go unreported and therefore skews data. 

Causes of Hyperhidrosis

Overall, this is just one suspected cause of hyperhidrosis, but it is not the only one. To understand other potential causes, you must first understand the two different types of hyperhidrosis: primary focal hyperhidrosis and secondary generalized hyperhidrosis. 

• Primary Focal Hyperhidrosis

  • This form of hyperhidrosis is influenced by genetic makeup. Symptoms typically begin in childhood or puberty and may persist throughout the person’s life if untreated. 

• Secondary Generalized Hyperhidrosis 

  • This form of hyperhidrosis is actually not hereditary because it is caused by an outside, secondary factor such as medication or as a side effect from another condition or disease.

In addition to the different forms of the condition, there are also other outside factors that can contribute to or further any excessive sweating including temperature, certain foods, stress, and more. These factors can all play a role in causing excessive sweating, but ultimately if you have primary focal hyperhidrosis, it is likely that the core cause is a hereditary factor. 

Who Can Inherit Hyperhidrosis?

In terms of primary focal hyperhidrosis, it is a condition that can be inherited in people pretty much across the board. That means that men and women are equally affected by this condition. Similarly, there are really no stand-out features or demographic statistics when it comes to who can inherit hyperhidrosis. Overall, if you have a family history of hyperhidrosis, the odds are there for it to be passed on regardless of who you are or the lifestyle you live. 

Treatment for Hyperhidrosis

All and all, while hyperhidrosis is likely a genetic condition, it is also a very treatable one. There are a number of natural treatment options to help combat any excessive sweating. There are also a number of extremely effective, more permanent solutions to dealing with hyperhidrosis. 

That is where the experts at The Center for Hyperhidrosis really come into play!

We specialize in a number of different treatment options for hyperhidrosis, including Miradry®, Botox, medications, antiperspirants, iontophoresis, and more! Our team of experts is here to help you find the solution that is right for your particular condition and will be with you every step of the way in treating your excessive sweating. 

To learn more about our treatment options, visit our hyperhidrosis treatment pages today or give us a call at 212-342-1354.