When Sweating Is Excessive: What You Should Know

Perspiration is a normal bodily function that is meant to help keep the body temperature regulated. So, certain amounts of perspiration are normal and healthy. However, some patients have different experiences. Instead of minor sweating, they seem to sweat excessively and seemingly all over. This excessive perspiration could be the result of a medical issue.

Hyperhidrosis

The proper medical term for excessive sweating is hyperhidrosis. Individuals who are diagnosed with this medical condition typically perspire to the point that the moisture soaks through their clothes, and they often perspire during a period in which sweating is not necessarily typical. 

Someone who sweats while sleeping at night or when they are resting may be diagnosed with this condition. A patient who sweats when their body is otherwise cool, such as during cold weather, might also have hyperhidrosis. There is much to be discovered in terms of why a person might have this condition, but overcharged nerves are a common cause. A person is also at an increased risk of having this condition if one of their parents has it.

Underlying Medical Causes

Hyperhidrosis is just one reason why an individual might sweat excessively. For some people, the culprit is an underlying medical condition that is prompting them to perspire more than normal, such as high blood pressure. 

Elevated blood pressure increases resistance within the blood vessels, which ultimately forces the body to work harder to keep the blood pumping. This extra energy exertion can cause perspiration. Individuals who have hyperthyroidism or who have a hormonal imbalance might also have this issue. When an underlying condition is the cause of excessive sweating, the excessive perspiration will often cease if the patient can regulate the medical condition.

Hyperhidrosis Treatments

Fortunately, you do not have to live with the embarrassment of excessive sweating. To help combat the problem, a dermatologist may recommend a prescription medication. These oral medications aim to reduce some of the sweat glands' function, which can ultimately lead to less sweat production. 

A provider might also recommend a Botox treatment. Botox will prevent stimulation of the nerves that prompt sweat production, which will also reduce how much you perspire. For cases of severe hyperhidrosis or in situations where other treatment options have failed, a dermatologist may surgically remove some of the sweat glands from the problem area.  

If you have concerns about the level of sweat you produce, do not hesitate to contact a medical professional for assistance with this issue.