My Body · Hair, Sweat & Body Odour
Sweating Too Much?
By the eva team · · 2 min read
Sweating during exercise, hot weather, fever or nervous moments is normal because it helps cool the body. But sweating heavily when your body does not need cooling or sweating enough to soak clothes, affect schoolwork or make everyday activities difficult may be excessive sweating, also called hyperhidrosis. It commonly affects the underarms, palms, soles, face or scalp and can often be managed with proper support and treatment.
1. How Much Sweating Is “Too Much”?
There is no exact amount of sweat that is normal for everyone. Sweating may be excessive when it happens even in cool conditions or while you are resting, soaks through clothes frequently or feels far greater than your body needs for cooling.
2. It Often Affects Specific Areas
Primary focal hyperhidrosis usually affects one or two areas, commonly the palms, soles, underarms, face or scalp. It often begins during childhood or adolescence and can happen even when the rest of the body feels comfortable.
3. Notice How It Affects Your Day
Sweating deserves attention when it makes writing difficult, causes objects to slip from your hands, repeatedly soaks clothing or socks, interrupts school and activities, or makes you avoid raising your hand, shaking hands or sitting near other people. Hyperhidrosis can affect both practical tasks and emotional confidence.
4. Triggers Can Make It Stronger
Heat, exercise, nervousness, stress, humidity and caffeine can trigger heavier sweating in some people. Keeping a simple record of when sweating happens, which area is affected and what you were doing can help you recognise patterns and explain them clearly to a healthcare professional.
5. Small Changes Can Improve Comfort
An antiperspirant can help reduce sweat, while deodorant mainly manages odour. Breathable or moisture-wicking clothing, fresh socks, dry shoes and carrying a spare top may also help. For antiperspirants, follow the product directions and apply only to clean, dry, unbroken skin.
6. Excessive Sweating Can Be Treated
Talk to a trusted adult or healthcare professional if sweating has lasted for months, happens regularly, affects daily activities, occurs during sleep or suddenly becomes much heavier. Excessive sweating can occur on its own, but it can also be related to a health condition or medication. A clinician can assess the pattern and discuss suitable treatment options.