Why do my hands sweat so much?

Sweating helps cool the body, but overactive sweat signals can make the palms damp during quiet activities, work, writing, or social contact. A clinician may also consider medicines or conditions such as hyperthyroidism, hypoglycaemia, heat exhaustion, or obstructive sleep apnoea when symptoms are new, widespread, or accompanied by other changes. Visit the page on Excessive Sweating for a broader symptom guide.

Keep a brief record of timing, triggers, body areas, night sweating, and any new medicines. Dry your hands gently, use breathable materials, and avoid applying irritating products to broken skin. A clinician may discuss antiperspirant preparations, iontophoresis, botulinum toxin injections, or microwave sweat gland treatment depending on the pattern and your preferences.

Arrange a medical assessment if heavy sweating starts suddenly, occurs during sleep, affects daily tasks, or comes with weight change, tremor, faintness, confusion, chest discomfort, fever, or breathlessness. Seek urgent help for confusion, collapse, severe weakness, or signs of overheating.

Could this be primary hand hyperhidrosis or a medicine or health condition? Should thyroid or glucose testing be considered? Which treatment fits my skin, schedule, and tolerance for temporary effects?