How is excessive sweating treated?

A clinician first considers where sweating occurs, whether it happens during sleep, when it began, and whether medicines or another condition could be contributing. Localised sweating of the palms, feet, or underarms may respond to antiperspirants containing aluminium salts, prescription creams or tablets, or botulinum toxin injections. Treatment works by reducing sweat gland activity or blocking the nerve signals that stimulate sweating. If sweating is linked to hyperthyroidism, hypoglycaemia, heat exhaustion, or another illness, that problem needs its own treatment. See the pages on Hyperhidrosis, Sweaty Palms, and Sweaty Feet for related patterns.

Keep a short record of episodes, including the body area, time of day, heat, exercise, foods, stress, and any new medicine. Wear breathable clothing, change damp socks, and use absorbent materials where practical. A clinician may recommend a strong antiperspirant at night on completely dry skin; follow the product instructions because irritation can occur. Botulinum toxin for sweating may be considered when sweating remains troublesome in a defined area. Do not stop a prescribed medicine without discussing it with the prescriber.

Arrange a medical assessment if sweating is new, severe, disrupting sleep or daily activities, or accompanied by weight change, tremor, fever, dizziness, faintness, palpitations, or unusual thirst. Seek urgent help for heavy sweating with chest pain, trouble breathing, confusion, collapse, or signs of heat illness. Night sweats that repeatedly soak clothing also deserve assessment.

Could a medicine or medical condition be causing this? Which option suits the area affected? How should I use the prescribed product, and what irritation or other effects should I watch for?