Primary hyperhidrosis is believes to be an inherited condition causing overactive sweat glands, while secondary hyperhidrosis may occur at any point in life due to certain diseases, menopause, some types of drugs and other factors. The excessive sweating may occur all over the body, or at certain parts of the body like the hands, feet, armpits and back area where there is a higher concentration of sweat glands.

Hyperhydrosis can get in the way of daily activities, causing difficulties in practical situations such as grasping objects. Needless to say, affected people also suffer from social embarrassment due to sweat spots and stains, and when they need to come into physical contact with other people. The problem is compounded when any anxiety caused by self-consciousness may even aggravate the sweating.