Excessive sweating of hands and feet: home remedies

Sweating may increase with heat, exercise, stress, fever, hormonal shifts or certain medicines. When it mainly affects the palms and soles, it can be a long-term pattern called hyperhidrosis. Damp skin can soften and crack, while enclosed footwear encourages odour and fungal irritation. The symptom alone does not identify its cause; a clinician may ask when it began, whether it happens during sleep, and which areas are affected.

Wash gently, dry carefully between the toes, and choose breathable shoes that can air between uses. Change socks when they become damp; moisture-wicking fabric may feel more comfortable. A pharmacy antiperspirant containing aluminium salts may help when applied to completely dry skin, often at night, following its label. Stop if marked irritation develops. Keep a brief diary of triggers and situations, including warm rooms, anxiety, meals and activity. If these steps do not give enough control, a clinician can discuss iontophoresis or other options.

Arrange a medical review when sweating starts suddenly, is heavy at night, affects daily tasks, or comes with weight change, tremor, racing heartbeat or repeated dizziness. Seek urgent help for sweating with confusion, fainting, chest pain, severe weakness or signs of heat illness. Learn more about Excessive Sweating and Heat Exhaustion if those symptoms fit.

Could a medicine or health condition be contributing? Is an antiperspirant suitable for my skin? Would iontophoresis help my palms or soles, and how should irritated or cracked skin be treated?