Why do I sweat so much? When excessive sweating can be a sign that something is wrong.
Temperatures are starting to heat up this spring, which means you're no doubt sweating more than usual. That's totally normal. But excessive sweating can sometimes be an indicator that something isn't normal in your body.
Hyperhidrosis is the medical term for excessive sweating in the underarms, face, scalp, palms and feet, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. First thing's first: Sweating is a completely normal bodily function and not something to be embarrassed about, health experts say. But there is hope if you want to do something to change it.
"For those struggling with the mental impacts of excessive sweating and body odor, it’s crucial to understand that these conditions are common and manageable," plastic surgeon Dr. Joel E. Kopelman, who frequently treats patients looking to curb their sweating, tells Paste BN.
Before you attempt to stop the sweat, though, experts say you should know when perspiration is normal versus when it might be an indicator of a health issue. Here's what medical professionals want you to know.
What is excessive sweating a sign of?
Sweating is a natural reaction to your body needing to cool off, and there are times when profusely sweating is a normal response to something physical, such as exercising, experiencing heat or going through puberty or menopause, according to Stanford Medicine.
"Excessive sweating can (also) be due to overactive sweat glands," Kopelman adds. Genetics, stress and hormonal changes can impact how much you sweat, too. Certain medications you're taking could also impact sweat levels.
But other times, sweating can be an indicator that something isn't quite right in your body.
When should I worry about sweating?
If you're dripping sweat even when there isn't an obvious trigger, experts say that could be reason to consult a medical professional.
"Sweating is normal during physical activity, in hot environments or when feeling stressed," Kopelman says. "However, if you sweat excessively without these triggers, it might indicate hyperhidrosis or other health conditions."
Heavy sweating is sometimes caused by health issues such as diabetes, heart failure, an overactive thyroid or anxiety, per Stanford Medicine.
If you're hoping to curb your excessive sweating, Kopelman says there are a number of options you can try, including using a stronger antiperspirant, wearing "breathable" fabrics such as linen or cotton and focusing on managing stress. If those don't work, you can also consult a medical professional to see if you might be a good candidate for trying prescription medication, Botox (which isn't just for wrinkles — it can "can effectively reduce underarm and palm sweating by blocking the nerves that stimulate sweat glands," Kopelman says) and other treatments aimed at more severe cases of hyperhidrosis.
But health experts also want you to remember that sweating is important to help cool off your body, so the goal should never be to stop sweating entirely.
"It’s generally safe to reduce sweating, especially if it’s causing discomfort or social anxiety. However, completely inhibiting the body's natural cooling process isn’t advisable," Kopelman says. "Treatments like Botox are targeted and do not affect the body’s overall ability to regulate temperature."