Hyperhidrosis, a condition that causes excessive sweating, may cause severe discomfort. This sweating is not caused due to heat or physical activity, as in others, and excessive sweating can result in feelings of anxiety and embarrassment. Here are the causes and symptoms of excessive sweating that everyone should know:

Causes
Sweating is the body’s way of cooling itself. When one’s body temperature rises, the nervous system triggers the sweat glands. Sweating on the palms is also normal, especially when one is nervous, but overactive sweat glands are triggered without any exertion or rise in temperature. There are two forms of hyperhidrosis:

Primary hyperhidrosis : This is the most common form of this condition. There are no known medical causes of primary hyperhidrosis, but it has been seen to run in families and could have genetic links. In this case, sweating occurs on the palms, soles, and face, and it worsens when one is nervous or stressed.

Secondary hyperhidrosis : In some cases, secondary hyperhidrosis occurs as a result of an underlying medical condition, and sweating occurs all over the body in this type. Some of the causes of secondary hyperhidrosis are:

• Diabetes
• Heart attack
• Nervous system disorders
• Menopausal hot flashes
• Low blood sugar levels
• Certain forms of cancer
• Thyroid issues
• Infections
• Certain medications
• Withdrawal symptom, such as that caused due to opioid withdrawal
• Fever
• Endocarditis or an infection of the inner lining of the heart
• Malaria
• Obesity

Symptoms
Now that we’ve looked at the causes, let’s discuss the symptoms of excessive sweating. It is normal to experience some sweating when exercising or exerting oneself physically. Sweating is also normal in a hot environment or when one is feeling anxious or stressed. That said, hyperhidrosis is characterized by the following signs:

• Excessive sweating that mostly affects the hands, feet, underarms, or face
• Excessive sweating occurs at least once every week during waking hours
• Sweating occurs on both sides of the body

In addition to the above-mentioned signs, one should consult a doctor if they experience any of the following symptoms:

• Light-headedness
• Chest pain
• Nausea
• Excessive sweating that disrupts one’s daily life
• Excessive sweating that causes social withdrawal and emotional distress
• Night sweats that occur for no known reason

It is also important to note that excessive sweating can sometimes indicate a serious underlying health condition.

In addition to causing emotional distress and anxiety, hyperhidrosis can result in certain skin infections. After understanding the causes and symptoms of excessive sweating, one can determine whether they have this condition and visit a doctor at the earliest for advice on how to manage it effectively.