What Are the Causes of Excessive Sweating?

Sweating is a natural response of the body to maintain temperature balance and eliminate toxins. However, in some individuals, sweating can exceed normal levels and become uncomfortable. Excessive sweating is medically referred to as hyperhidrosis and may indicate various health issues.

Primary Hyperhidrosis

• The exact cause of this type of sweating is unknown, but it is often associated with genetic predisposition.
• It is especially concentrated in the palms, soles, and underarms.
• Triggered by stress, excitement, or heat.

Secondary Hyperhidrosis

• Occurs as a symptom of an underlying medical condition.
• Sweating is widespread throughout the body and usually starts suddenly.

1. Hormonal Changes

• Hormonal fluctuations during menopause, pregnancy, or puberty can increase sweating.
• Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can also be a common cause.

2. Metabolic and Systemic Diseases

• Diabetes can lead to excessive sweating due to sudden changes in blood sugar levels.
• Kidney failure, heart diseases, or infections can also increase sweating.

3. Infections and Febrile Illnesses

• Night sweats are common in infections such as tuberculosis, flu, and HIV.
• Febrile illnesses trigger the body’s defense mechanisms, causing sweating.

4. Nervous System Disorders

• Disorders of the nervous system can cause sweat glands to overact.
• Increased sweating may be observed in conditions like Parkinson’s disease and stroke.

5. Psychological Factors

• Stress, anxiety, and panic attacks can lead to intense sweating.
• People with social phobia may experience sudden sweating in the palms and facial area.

Excessive sweating can be caused by genetic factors. If someone in your family experiences excessive sweating, you may also be affected. This is especially common in localized sweating issues, such as sweating of the hands and feet.

Hormonal changes can also lead to excessive sweating. Periods such as puberty and menopause involve hormonal fluctuations, during which excessive sweating may occur. Additionally, an overactive thyroid can contribute to sweating problems.

Stress and anxiety can cause your body to sweat excessively. When you are stressed or anxious, your body temperature rises, and sweating occurs as a cooling mechanism. This is particularly common in social situations or during important presentations.

Unhealthy eating habits can also contribute to excessive sweating. Spicy and fatty foods can raise body temperature and trigger sweating. Additionally, caffeine and alcohol consumption can increase sweating.

Clothing choices can affect excessive sweating. Synthetic fabrics prevent the skin from breathing and increase sweating. Tight or restrictive clothing can also trigger sweating. Therefore, individuals experiencing excessive sweating are advised to wear loose, cotton clothing.

• Sudden onset sweating affecting the entire body may indicate a serious underlying condition.
• Night sweats can be a sign of cancers such as lymphoma or infectious diseases like tuberculosis.
• If accompanied by additional symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, or weight loss, consulting a specialist is recommended.

Treatment methods for excessive sweating vary depending on the type and cause of the condition:

• Antiperspirants: Can be effective for underarm and hand sweating.
• Medication: Prescription drugs may be used to reduce sweating symptoms.
• Botox Application: Provides successful results for sweating in the hands, feet, and underarms.
• Surgical Methods: Procedures involving cutting or removing nerves can eliminate excessive sweating complaints.

• Sage Tea: Drinking sage tea may reduce sweat gland activity.
• Cotton Clothing: Wearing breathable cotton clothes allows the body to ventilate and helps decrease sweating.
• Regular Hydration: Drinking enough water helps regulate body temperature and reduce excessive sweating.

At A Life Health Group, you can receive expert guidance from our doctors on diagnosing and treating excessive sweating. For more information, visit our website.

How to Cope
People experiencing excessive sweating can take several measures to prevent it from affecting daily life:

• Healthy Nutrition: Avoid spicy, fatty, and caffeinated foods.
• Stress Management: Practices such as yoga or meditation can help reduce stress and anxiety, which can trigger sweating.

For treatment, consult a dermatologist. Options for localized sweating include:

• Botox Injections: Effective for hands, feet, and underarms.
• Surgical Removal of Sweat Glands: Considered in severe cases.
• Treating Underlying Hormonal Issues: If hormonal imbalances are causing excessive sweating, treating the root cause can reduce symptoms.

Excessive sweating can impact daily life, but with proper measures and treatment, it can be managed effectively. If you are struggling with excessive sweating, consult a dermatologist to find the most suitable treatment for you.

You can also share your experiences in the comments or ask questions to learn more about managing this condition.