Excessive sweating

Overview

Excessive sweating, also called hyperhidrosis, means you sweat much more than your body needs to cool down. It can happen in specific areas like your hands, feet, underarms, or face, or all over your body.

Yes, it is quite common. Research suggests that millions of people around the world have excessive sweating.

It can affect anyone at any age, but it often starts in childhood or the teenage years. Both men and women can have it.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Sweating that soaks through your clothes or drips off your hands or face
• Sweating in only one spot, such as the palms, soles, underarms, or face
• Sweating that happens even when you are not hot, exercising, or feeling nervous
• Sweating that interferes with daily activities like writing, using a phone, or holding hands

Symptoms in children

• Sweating in the hands, feet, or underarms that is out of proportion to activity or weather
• Clammy hands can make schoolwork like handwriting difficult
• Children may feel embarrassed or avoid social activities like playing games or shaking hands

Symptoms in older adults

• Excessive sweating that is new or getting worse
• Sweating that occurs at night (night sweats) – this can be a sign of another health issue
• Sweating along with other symptoms like weight loss, fever, or chest pain

Causes

Main causes

• Overactive sweat glands – the nerves that tell your sweat glands to work are too sensitive
• Genetics – if a close family member has it, you are more likely to have it too
• An underlying medical condition, such as an overactive thyroid, diabetes, or an infection
• Certain medicines – some drugs can cause sweating as a side effect

Risk factors

• Having a family history of excessive sweating
• Being overweight or obese (extra body heat can increase sweating)
• Having a condition like anxiety, menopause, or some hormone problems

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If excessive sweating is accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness – call your local emergency number immediately.
• If you have a very high fever with sweating, see a doctor the same day.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If sweating is affecting your confidence, work, or relationships
• If you have night sweats for no clear reason
• If sweating started suddenly or is getting worse
• If you have tried over-the-counter antiperspirants and they do not help

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your sweating pattern, how long it has been happening, and any other symptoms. They may also do a physical exam.

Tests that may be done

• A starch-iodine test – an iodine solution is applied to the sweating area, then starch powder. The area turns dark blue where sweating occurs.
• Sometimes a blood test or urine test to check for underlying conditions like thyroid problems or infections.
• In some cases, a sweat test may be done to measure how much you sweat.

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will probably rule out other causes first. They may refer you to a skin doctor (dermatologist) for further care.

Treatment

Treatment depends on how severe the sweating is and which areas are affected. The goal is to reduce sweating and improve your quality of life. Options range from simple self-care to procedures provided by a specialist.

Self-care at home

• Use a strong antiperspirant (not just deodorant) on your underarms, hands, or feet. Apply it at night on dry skin.
• Choose clothing made from natural fibres like cotton or linen, and wear layers to stay cool.
• Keep your skin clean and dry to prevent infections.
• Avoid triggers like spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol.
• Try relaxation techniques if stress makes your sweating worse.

Medical treatments

If self-care is not enough, a doctor may suggest prescription antiperspirants, oral medications (these can help reduce sweating but may have side effects), or treatments like iontophoresis (using a mild electrical current through water to temporarily stop sweat glands). Injection therapy with a substance that blocks nerve signals to sweat glands is another option, as is a microwave treatment that destroys sweat glands. Your doctor will discuss which option is best for you.

When is surgery considered?

For very severe cases that do not improve with other treatments, surgery may be considered. One type is endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS), which cuts the nerves that trigger sweating. However, this surgery can cause side effects like sweating in other areas, so it is only used after careful discussion with a specialist.

Living with this condition

Excessive sweating can be frustrating, but there are many ways to manage it. Try to keep extra clothes and antiperspirant with you. Use absorbent pads or powders if needed. Plan ahead for social situations so you feel less nervous.

Lifestyle tips

• Wear breathable shoes and change socks during the day.
• Use a fan or air conditioning when possible.
• Avoid wearing tight synthetic clothing.
• Use a towel or small cloth to pat yourself dry.

Diet and exercise

Exercise is still important – just take a shower afterwards. Avoid spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol as these can increase sweating for some people. Staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet can help overall health.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Excessive sweating can cause embarrassment, anxiety, and low self-esteem. If you feel stressed or depressed, talk to your doctor. Remember that mental health support is available – you are not alone. If you have thoughts of hurting yourself, please call a crisis helpline or go to your local emergency department.

Prevention

In most cases, excessive sweating cannot be prevented because it is caused by your body's natural wiring. However, you can manage triggers and treat the sweating once it starts.

Complications

If left untreated

• Skin infections like athlete's foot or jock itch, because moisture encourages fungus and bacteria
• Emotional problems such as social anxiety or avoiding work, school, or relationships
• Irritation or rashes from constant moisture

Long-term outlook

Most people with excessive sweating can find a treatment that works for them. While it is often a long-term condition, many lead full, active lives with good management. Talk to your healthcare provider about what options might help you.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.