It might not seem like a big deal from a distance — a damp brow on a sunny day, drenched underarms after an intense exercise class, moist palms before giving an important presentation — things we all experience from time to time. Some of us even look forward to sweating it out in a sauna or steam room.
But for those who sweat profusely, this normal bodily function can be a nightmare. Excessive sweating isn’t just inconvenient; it can be uncomfortable and embarrassing, and in severe cases, it can negatively impact quality of life.
If you're concerned about your level of sweating, it may be time to consult with a doctor who can assess what’s causing it. Let’s look at some of the reasons why you may sweat easily and what treatment options might be available.
Why Do We Sweat?
Sweating is a natural process that keeps us from overheating. When we sweat, the moisture collects on our skin and then evaporates, cooling us down. Sweating can also occur as a result of hormonal changes, drinking alcohol or caffeinated beverages, eating spicy foods, or experiencing strong emotions like anger, stress or embarrassment. As icky or irritating as it might feel in the moment, sweating has benefits that go beyond regulating our body temperature:- Protecting against harmful germs on the skin’s surface
- Filtering toxins from the body
- Increasing blood circulation due to vasodilation
Why Do Some People Naturally Sweat More Than Others?
Picture the end of your favourite fitness class. Some people are dripping as they exit the studio, while others look as fresh as they did when they entered. What’s going on? Various factors affect how much or how little someone sweats:- Age
- Sex
- Genetics
- Fitness level
- Body size
- Health conditions
- Diet
What Are the Signs of Excessive Sweating?
There’s functional sweat and then there's "I'm just trying to get through the day without having to change my shirt at work" sweat. Telltale signs of excessive sweating include:- Sweating outside of normal stimuli
- Sweating that visibly soaks through clothing
- Sweaty palms that make everyday tasks difficult (e.g. driving or using a mobile phone)
- Sweating that causes anxiety in social or professional settings
- Sweating that causes irritating skin conditions, such as fungal overgrowth
- Sweaty hands that leave marks on paper and fabrics
- Sweaty feet that ruin footwear