Excessive sweating

Why do I sweat so much? This is a question many people ask. Excessive sweating, also known as hyperhidrosis, is a medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide. On this page, you’ll find all the information about sweating, from causes to effective treatments

What is sweating and excessive sweating?

What is sweating? Sweating is a natural bodily process where moisture is released through the skin to regulate body temperature. Normal sweating is essential for your health, but when you sweat more than usual, it may indicate hyperhidrosis.

Excessive sweating is defined as sweating beyond what is needed for temperature regulation. It can affect various parts of the body, including the face, head, hands, feet, and armpits.

People with hyperhidrosis often find that sweaty hands and a damp face interfere with their daily activities. This can occur in situations where most people wouldn’t normally sweat, such as in a cool room or while resting.

Causes of excessive sweating

Primary hyperhidrosis causes

Hyperhidrosis can be classified into primary and secondary types. Primary hyperhidrosis has no underlying medical cause and often involves:

• Genetic predisposition – if family members also experience excessive sweating

• Overactive sweat glands that produce more moisture than needed

• Stress and emotional tension, which can trigger sweating

• Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause

Secondary causes of sweating

Excessive sweating can also result from underlying medical conditions, such as:

• Thyroid disorders that affect metabolism

• Diabetes and blood sugar fluctuations

• Menopause and hormonal changes

• Certain medications, such as antidepressants

• Excess body weight leading to increased sweating

• Infections and fever

Why do some people sweat more than others?

Why do I sweat quickly while others don’t? This difference is caused by several factors, including genetics, body composition, fitness, and the sensitivity of your sweat glands.

Some people naturally have more active sweat glands, causing them to sweat in situations where others remain dry. Overall health and fitness also play a role in how quickly you begin to sweat.

Symptoms of Hyperhidrosis

Excessive sweating of the head and face

Excessive sweating on the scalp and face is a common symptom of hyperhidrosis. People often experience:

• Persistent sweat on the forehead, even in cool environments

• Sweaty scalp without any obvious cause, such as exercise or heat

• Facial sweating during normal daily activities

• Heavy facial sweating with light exertion or stress

• A constant damp feeling on the forehead and cheeks

Hyperhidrosis symptoms elsewhere on the body

In addition to excessive facial sweating, hyperhidrosis can also affect other parts of the body:

• Sweaty hands that feel constantly damp and may stain clothing

• Sweating of hands and feet simultaneously, which can affect social interactions

• Sweating in the groin area, particularly uncomfortable on warm days

• Sweaty feet that can damage shoes and socks

• Sweaty groin leading to skin irritation

The main characteristic of hyperhidrosis is that the sweating is disproportionate to the ambient temperature or physical activity.

Treatments for Excessive Sweating

Medical treatments

Treatment for excessive sweating of the head or face can take different forms depending on the severity of your symptoms.

Medications for sweating

• Anti-sweat tablets (anticholinergics) that reduce sweat production

• Prescription medication for sweating from your GP or specialist

• Hyperhidrosis medication for systemic treatment of the whole body

• Tablets that are particularly effective for generalized hyperhidrosis

Professional procedures

• Surgical removal of sweat glands

• Hyperhidrosis surgery for severe cases that do not respond to other treatments

• Botox injections for targeted treatment of specific areas

• Iontophoresis therapy, which uses mild electrical currents to reduce sweating

Practical Tips and Self-Help

What can you do about sweaty hands and other forms of excessive sweating? There are several measures you can take yourself.

Tips for sweaty hands

• Use antiperspirants specifically formulated for hands, with higher concentrations of active ingredients

• Wear breathable fabrics such as cotton and avoid synthetic materials

• Avoid spicy foods and caffeine, which can trigger sweating

• Practice stress-management techniques, such as breathing exercises

Daily coping strategies for sweaty hands

• Wash and thoroughly dry your hands regularly

• Use talcum powder to absorb moisture

• Wear special gloves for certain activities

• Keep a handkerchief, tissues, or small towel on hand at all times

Treatment by Body Area

Excessive forehead sweating

Sweating on the forehead can be managed with several targeted methods:

• Facial antiperspirants specifically formulated for the face

• Botox treatments that temporarily block sweat glands

• Special headbands that absorb sweat during exercise

Sweating in the groin

Men and women experiencing excessive groin sweating may benefit from:

• Deodorants designed for sensitive skin folds

• Breathable underwear made from natural fabrics

• Professional treatment by a dermatologist if symptoms persist

When to seek professional help

It’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional if:

• Excessive forehead or facial sweating significantly affects daily life

• Sweating interferes with social activities

• Sudden bouts of sweating occur without clear cause

• Standard treatments and self-care measures provide no relief

• Sweating is accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever or unexplained weight loss

Frequently asked questions about perspiration