From the Guidelines
Hyperhidrosis during pregnancy is primarily caused by hormonal changes, increased blood flow, and higher metabolic rate, with the elevated levels of estrogen and progesterone affecting the body's thermoregulatory system, leading to excessive sweating, particularly in the second and third trimesters. The causes of hyperhidrosis in pregnancy can be broken down into several key factors, including:
- Hormonal changes: The increased levels of estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy affect the body's thermoregulatory system, leading to excessive sweating 1.
- Increased blood flow: The increased blood volume (about 50% higher during pregnancy) generates more body heat that needs to be dissipated through sweating.
- Higher metabolic rate: Pregnant women have a higher basal metabolic rate, producing more heat as a byproduct.
- Weight gain: Weight gain during pregnancy can also contribute to increased sweating, as can the higher core body temperature that naturally occurs during pregnancy. It is essential to note that while hyperhidrosis is typically a normal physiological response during pregnancy, severe cases can be managed with aluminum chloride antiperspirants (15-20% concentration), breathable clothing, and avoiding triggers like spicy foods and caffeine. Medical attention should be sought if excessive sweating is accompanied by fever, chest pain, or difficulty breathing, as these may indicate underlying conditions requiring treatment, such as those related to cardiac output and systemic vascular resistance changes during pregnancy 1. Most pregnancy-related hyperhidrosis resolves after delivery when hormone levels return to normal.
From the Research
Causes of Hyperhidrosis in Pregnancy
There are no research papers to assist in answering this question, as the provided studies focus on the management of symptomatic hydronephrosis in pregnancy 2, 3, 4 and the treatment of hyperhidrosis in general 5, 6, but do not specifically address the causes of hyperhidrosis in pregnancy.
Related Information on Hyperhidrosis
- Hyperhidrosis is a common condition that has a tremendous impact on the quality of life of patients 5
- Primary hyperhidrosis most commonly affects palms, axillae, and soles 6
- Secondary hyperhidrosis is caused by an underlying condition, and treatment involves the removal or control of this condition 6
- The treatment options for primary hyperhidrosis involve a range of topical or systemic medications, psychotherapy, and surgical or non-surgical invasive techniques 6
Related Information on Hydronephrosis in Pregnancy
- Symptomatic hydronephrosis in pregnancy can be safely treated conservatively 2, 3
- Conservative management usually includes regular analgesia, positioning, and antibiotics, with close follow-up with ultrasound 2
- Intervention with ureteric stent insertion or nephrostomy tube insertion may be necessary in some cases 2, 3, 4