Diagnostic Code 7832 · 38 CFR §4.118
Hyperhidrosis is a condition causing excessive sweating beyond what the body needs for temperature regulation. It can be generalized (affecting the whole body) or localized (primarily hands, feet, or armpits). While it may seem minor, severe hyperhidrosis can be extremely disabling — making it difficult to grip objects, ruining clothing and equipment, causing skin breakdown, and creating significant social embarrassment. Veterans may develop hyperhidrosis from nerve damage during service, as a side effect of service-connected conditions, or from medications prescribed during service.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Hyperhidrosis that can be controlled by medication or other treatment such that it doesn't interfere with handling paper, tools, etc. |
| 30% | Hyperhidrosis unable to be controlled by therapy and interfering with the use of the hands. This is the maximum schedular rating under DC 7832. |
Medical records documenting the hyperhidrosis diagnosis are necessary. Records of all treatments attempted and their results are critical — the rating hinges on whether medication controls the condition. Documentation of functional limitations caused by the sweating demonstrates disability. Dermatology or neurology records showing the condition and its impact support the claim. Service records connecting onset to a service event, condition, or medication establish the nexus.
If you have tried prescription-strength antiperspirants, oral anticholinergic medications, and potentially other treatments like iontophoresis or Botox injections without achieving adequate control of your sweating, the condition is considered unable to be controlled by medication. Document each treatment trial and its results.
Yes. Hyperhidrosis can develop secondary to nerve damage, PTSD medications, thyroid conditions, anxiety disorders, and other service-connected conditions. If your excessive sweating began after developing another condition or starting a medication, file it as a secondary condition linked to the primary one.