Tension Hyperhidrosis Worse in Winter, A Performer’s Story of Treatment
Hello, I’m Dr. Sangchul Hwang, a researcher and therapist specializing in autonomic nervousness, and today I’d like to share my experience with hyperhidrosis. Hyperhidrosis is a condition that typically worsens during the summer months when temperatures are high and humid. In fact, many hyperhidrosis sufferers experience increased sweating of the hands, feet, and underarms during the summer months, which can be uncomfortable. However, not all hyperhidrosis sufferers experience the same symptoms, and some sufferers actually experience worse symptoms in the winter.
The patient we interviewed was a musician in an orchestra who suffered from hyperhidrosis year-round, but was characterized by symptoms that worsened during the winter months. She repeatedly experienced sweaty hands and body during performances, even in the colder months, and a sudden increase in sweating with palpitations during stressful situations.
This patient’s hyperhidrosis was not simply described as a thermoregulatory problem, but rather as a form of tension hyperhidrosis, which is characterized by an imbalance between the heart and the autonomic nervous system. During the winter months, vasoconstriction and sympathetic nervousness often occur simultaneously, which can lead to an unstable heartbeat and a more easily triggered tension response, which in turn increases sweating. This response can be especially pronounced in situations that require both concentration and tension, such as performing.
We hope that this orchestra player’s story will serve as a small reference for anyone who is struggling with hyperhidrosis, especially in the winter, and especially if it is accompanied by nervousness and heart palpitations.
