What Causes Excessive Sweating?

Hyperhidrosis is a condition characterised by excessive sweating (beyond what's needed to regulate body temperature), often affecting the underarms, hands, feet, and face. This condition can occur without an underlying medical cause (primary or focal hyperhidrosis) or as a result of other health conditions such as obesity, stress, or medications (secondary or generalised hyperhidrosis).

Primary hyperhidrosis is the most common type and usually begins in childhood or adolescence. It is thought to be caused by overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system, which controls the sweat glands. There is generally no underlying medical condition and it typically affects specific areas (e.g. armpits, hands, feet, face). With this type, you will often find that there is a genetic link and it runs in families.

Secondary hyperhidrosis in comparison, is caused by an underlying medical condition or medication. It often starts in adulthood and may affect the whole body. Causes include menopause or hormonal imbalances, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, infections, certain medications (e.g. antidepressants, pain relievers) or neurological conditions.