If you are sweating too much?

Primary hyperhidrosis often affects areas such as the palms, soles, underarms or face without an obvious underlying illness. Sweating that begins suddenly, occurs during sleep or affects the whole body can have another cause. Heat exhaustion, overactive thyroid, low blood sugar and sleep apnoea are examples clinicians may consider. Anxiety, fever, hormonal changes and some medicines can also increase sweating. Keep track of where it happens and what accompanies it.

Move to a cool place, drink fluids, wear breathable clothing and change damp garments to protect the skin. Use an antiperspirant as directed and note triggers such as heat, exercise, spicy food or stress. A clinician can review medicines and check for an underlying cause. If hyperhidrosis is confirmed, options may include iontophoresis, botulinum toxin injections or microwave sweat gland treatment, selected according to the body area and your health.

Get urgent help for heavy sweating with confusion, fainting, chest pain, severe weakness, breathlessness, very hot skin or inability to keep fluids down. Arrange prompt assessment for night sweats, unexplained weight loss, fever, palpitations, shaking, repeated episodes of weakness, or sweating that is disrupting daily activities.

Ask whether your pattern suggests hyperhidrosis or another condition, whether any medicine could be contributing, and which checks are appropriate. Discuss skin care, treatment choices for the affected areas, expected temporary effects and when follow-up is needed.