Experiences of men living with hyperhidrosis : Content analysis of interviews with 15 men suffering from primary hyperhidrosis

• Primary hyperhidrosisreduces quality of life and interferes with daily activities of those affected.Data regarding experiences of men living with this disease is scarce. The aimof this study was to explore men’s experiences of living with primaryhyperhidrosis. Interviews with 15 men were performed at the Department ofDermatology and Venereology, Umeå University Hospital. Thetranscripted data was analysed by qualitative content analysis. The analysisrevealed one theme: To be captured in a filthy body which was based on five categories and 12 sub-categories. In men with hyperhidrosis there is a daily struggle to hide or to manage the excessive sweatingand the disease was associated with being unclean or filthy. Insufficientunderstanding from others and reminders of the symptoms can be stressful,contribute to a lower self-esteem and make the individual resign fore theillness. The disease is stigmatising and has a negative effect on daily life. Menwith hyperhidrosis also experienced a lack of understanding when they discussedthe sweating problems with family members. Our results reinforce publishedquantitative studies showing that the disease has an impact on the mentalhealth of those affected. It is unknown if women are approached in a differentway by family or society in case of disclosure. Further research in women couldreveal and possibly explain the disparity that exists between the genders in seekinghealthcare. Meanwhile public education and informing children at school, at anage when the disease debuts could decrease stigmatisation and increase thewillingness to seek professional help.

Ämnesord

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Klinisk medicin -- Dermatologi och venereologi (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Clinical Medicine -- Dermatology and Venereal Diseases (hsv//eng)

Nyckelord

folkhälsa

Public health

omvårdnadsforskning med medicinsk inriktning

Caring Sciences

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