Clammy Hands: Causes, Implications, and Remedies

Few physical conditions can be as socially inhibiting as clammy hands. The discomfort of a cold, sticky handshake can certainly be remembered by people you meet, sometimes affect relationships, and cause significant self-consciousness. However, having clammy hands is not just a social discomfort, but can also be an indication of underlying medical conditions.

The scientific term for clammy hands is Palmar Hyperhidrosis, which essentially refers to excessive sweating of the palms. The condition is quite common and can affect anyone, irrespective of age or gender.

While the primary cause of clammy hands is overactive sweat glands, it can be exacerbated by various factors, including stress and anxiety. Other times it’s a symptom of certain medical conditions such as low blood sugar, panic disorder, anxiety disorder, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, infections – to name a few.

So, how does one realise they have this problem? Aside from the clear sign of having regularly wet or moist palms, other indicators include having a whitish colouration to the palms and having a salty or metallic taste in the mouth – this is because the body is producing more minerals as a result of excess sweat.

Now one may wonder what harm excessive sweating can really do, apart from the obvious social implications. Chronic excessive sweating can lead to skin maceration, an uncomfortable skin softening condition often leading to discomfort and easy injury.

Coming to the vital part – the treatment for excessive sweating can be multi-faceted, depending on the cause and severity. When lifestyle modifications do not suffice (like maintaining hand hygiene, using absorbent hand creams, or specific antiperspirant), various medical treatments are available.

This could include prescription antiperspirants and medications, Botox injections that block the nerves that trigger sweat glands, iontophoresis wherein a weak electric current is passed through the skin to reduce sweat gland activity, and as a last resort, surgical intervention to control sweat gland activity. These decisions, of course, should always be consulted with a healthcare provider.

While the thought of having clammy hands may seem daunting, it is important to remember that it is a common condition with multiple treatments available. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to understand the root cause and devise a suitable treatment plan. Remember, everyone sweats – some just a little more than others.