DEAR DR. GOTT:
My husband, who is 71, has been diagnosed with anhidrosis, which means he cannot perspire. We are currently living in Missouri, which often has days of high temperatures and humidity. This combination can be life threatening for him. He must take several precautionary steps to prevent over-heating and heat stroke. His doctor recommended we move to a cooler, high altitude, desert climate, such as Colorado, Wyoming or Utah. Since our children and grandchildren live in Missouri and Kansas, moving that far away will be very difficult for us.

My husband has been bothered with anhidrosis for several years and as he gets older, it bothers him more.

Do you know of any medical treatment or medication that would allow my husband to perspire? If you could help us, it would be very much appreciated.

DEAR READER:
Anhidrosis is the reduced ability to sweat. It can occur in one area, in patches or over most of the body. Some individuals may experience areas of increased sweating as the body attempts to compensate for the areas of reduced perspiration.

From your brief description, your husband’s condition appears to be widespread. This causes him to over heat quickly and cool down slowly. There are several preventive steps he can take such as reducing his outdoor activity during hot weather, drink plenty of fruit juice or electrolyte sports drinks and staying in an air conditioned area during hot and humid days. If he does become over heated, immediately move him into the shade or a cool house, make him drink cool (not ice) water or juice, place a fan on him or wrap him in wet towels.

There is no specific treatment for anhidrosis. Ask your primary care physician to refer you to a dermatologist (skin specialist) who may be able to test and diagnose the cause of your husband’s inability to perspire. If the dermatologist is unable to help your husband, perhaps a referral to an endocrinologist (gland specialist) is appropriate.