General practice·General practice
Excessive sweating
Informed by recognized medical guidance
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.
Key facts
- It is not caused by heat or exercise – the sweating happens even when you are resting.
- Excessive sweating can be embarrassing and affect your daily life, but treatments are available.
- It is often a long-term condition, but many people get good relief with simple steps or medical care.
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.