Louisiana Esthetics State Board Practice Test

Which condition is characterized by the presence of excess sweating?

1. Anhidrosis

2. Hyperhidrosis

3. Dehydration

4. Hypohidrosis

The correct answer is: Hyperhidrosis

The condition characterized by the presence of excess sweating is indeed hyperhidrosis. This condition arises when the sweat glands are overactive, leading to excessive perspiration that can occur in various areas of the body, such as the palms, feet, underarms, and face. Hyperhidrosis can be localized, affecting specific areas, or generalized, impacting the whole body. Understanding the terminology is important in this context. Anhidrosis refers to an inability to sweat, which is the opposite of hyperhidrosis. Dehydration relates to the body losing more fluids than it takes in, but it does not specifically involve the mechanisms of sweat production or its excess. Hypohidrosis describes reduced sweating, which again contrasts with the concept of excessive sweating seen in hyperhidrosis. Recognizing these distinctions helps to clarify why hyperhidrosis is the correct term for describing an excess of sweat.