Excessive sweating, also known as hyperhidrosis, is a common condition that affects more than 385 million people worldwide. While sweating is the body’s natural way of regulating temperature, heavy sweating without heat or exercise can cause embarrassment, disrupt daily routines, and affect confidence in social and professional settings. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for hyperhidrosis is the first step towards effective management.

What Is Hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis refers to sweating beyond what is necessary for cooling the body. People with this condition may sweat heavily from the palms, soles, underarms, or face, even when sitting still in cool environments. Others may experience generalised sweating across the entire body.

There are two main types of hyperhidrosis:

1. Primary hyperhidrosis – caused by overactive nerve signals that overstimulate sweat glands. It often affects the hands, feet, underarms, and face, and may run in families.
2. Secondary hyperhidrosis – usually begins later in life and is linked to underlying health conditions or medications. Common causes include thyroid disorders, diabetes, infections, menopause, obesity, or certain antidepressants and painkillers.

While not life-threatening, hyperhidrosis can severely affect mental health, career choices, and quality of life.

How Much Sweating Is Too Much?

Everyone sweats differently, but the following may signal a medical issue:

• Night sweats without an obvious cause
• Sweating more on one side of the body
• Sudden or worsening sweating in adulthood
• Excessive sweating with fatigue, weight loss, or frequent urination
• Sweating triggered by new medication

These signs may indicate secondary hyperhidrosis or another medical condition that requires attention.

Common Causes and Triggers of Heavy Sweating

The causes of excessive sweating depend on whether it is primary or secondary.Secondary hyperhidrosis can be triggered by:

• Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
• Diabetes or low blood sugar
• Menopause and hormonal changes
• Infections or fever
• Obesity or excess body weight

Lifestyle and diet can also worsen sweating:

• Spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol can raise body temperature.
• Stress and anxiety activate the “fight or flight” response.
• Tight, synthetic clothing traps heat and sweat.

Lifestyle Modifications to Reduce Excessive Sweating

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, practical adjustments can help manage sweating:

• Use clinical-strength antiperspirants with aluminium chloride.
• Stay hydrated with cold water to regulate body temperature.
• Choose breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking blends.
• Change socks frequently and choose shoes made of leather or mesh.
• Use underarm shields to protect clothing.
• Maintain a healthy weight to ease thermoregulation.

Adopting these lifestyle adjustments will not only reduce discomfort, but also enhance quality of life and self-esteem.

Medical Treatments for Hyperhidrosis

When lifestyle strategies are not enough, speak to a dermatologist or health care professional. Several hyperhidrosis treatments are available:

• Iontophoresis – mild electrical currents block sweat glands (hands/feet).
• Botox injections – temporarily block nerve signals, lasting months.
• Anticholinergic medications – reduce sweating but may cause side effects.
• Microwave therapy – permanently destroys underarm sweat glands.
• Endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) – surgery that interrupts nerve signals (used only as a last resort).

According to the International Hyperhidrosis Society, these treatments can significantly improve quality of life when combined with lifestyle modifications.

When to See a Doctor

Seek urgent medical care if excessive sweating occurs with:

• Chest pain or pressure
• Dizziness or fainting
• Cold skin with a rapid pulse

Schedule a medical check-up with a health care professional if sweating:

• Interferes with daily activities
• Causes social withdrawal or emotional distress
• Suddenly worsens without reason
• Occurs mainly at night

FAQs About Heavy Sweating

1. Can hyperhidrosis be cured?
   While there is no permanent cure, many people find long-term relief through treatments such as Botox, iontophoresis, or microwave therapy.
2. Why do I sweat so much at night?
   Night sweats may be linked to infections, hormonal changes, or secondary hyperhidrosis. If they happen often, consult a doctor.
3. What is the best natural remedy for heavy sweating?
   Wearing breathable clothing, staying hydrated, and managing stress are effective natural approaches. Some people also find that sage tea or apple cider vinegar helps.

Conclusion

Sweating is essential for temperature regulation, but hyperhidrosis goes beyond normal perspiration and can have a profound impact on confidence and daily life. Fortunately, with the right combination of lifestyle changes and medical treatments, it is possible to reduce symptoms, regain control, and live confidently.

References

• Fedhealth. (2013). Living a healthy life with diabetes: Tips and information. Retrieved September 9, 2025, from https://www.fedhealth.co.za/articles/diabetes/
• Fedhealth. (2020). Dealing with stress: Strategies for a healthier life. Retrieved September 9, 2025, from https://www.fedhealth.co.za/articles/dealing-with-stress-2/
• International Hyperhidrosis Society. (2024). Hyperhidrosis Awareness Month #KnowSweat 2024. Retrieved September 9, 2025, from https://www.sweathelp.org/sweat-help-home/hyperhidrosis-awareness-2024.html
• Ludman, P. (2024). Hyperhidrosis: 6 tips dermatologists give their patients. American Academy of Dermatology. Retrieved September 9, 2025, from https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/hyperhidrosis-self-care
• Mayo Clinic. (2024). Hyperhidrosis. Retrieved September 9, 2025, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hyperhidrosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20367152
• Morgan, K. K. (2024). What causes excessive sweating (Hyperhidrosis)? WebMD. Retrieved September 9, 2025, from https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/hyperhidrosis-causes-11
• NHS Inform. (2025). Hyperhidrosis. Retrieved September 9, 2025, from https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/skin-hair-and-nails/hyperhidrosis/
• National Institutes of Health. (2022). Overweight and obesity: Causes and risk factors. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Retrieved September 9, 2025, from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/overweight-and-obesity/causes

• Fedhealth. (2020). Dealing with stress: Strategies for a healthier life. Retrieved from: https://www.fedhealth.co.za/articles/dealing-with-stress-2/
• Fedhealth. (2013). Living a healthy life with diabetes: Tips and information. Retrieved from: https://www.fedhealth.co.za/articles/diabetes/
• International Hyperhidrosis Society. (2024). Hyperhidrosis Awareness Month #KnowSweat 2024. Retrieved from: https://www.sweathelp.org/sweat-help-home/hyperhidrosis-awareness-2024.html#:~:text=You%20can%20help%20us%20make,TRIPLES%20anxiety%20and%20depression%20risks.
• Ludman, P. (2024). AAD. Hyperhidrosis: 6 tips dermatologists give their patients. Retrieved from: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/hyperhidrosis-self-care
• Mayo Clinic. (2024). Hyperhidrosis. Retrieved from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hyperhidrosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20367152
• Morgan, K.K. (2024). WebMD. What causes excessive sweating (Hyperhidrosis)? Retrieved from: https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/hyperhidrosis-causes-11
• NHS Inform. (2025). Hyperhidrosis. Retrieved from: https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/skin-hair-and-nails/hyperhidrosis/
• NIH. (2022). Overweight and obesity. Causes and risk factors. Retrieved from: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/overweight-and-obesity/causes