Excessive sweating
Excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis, is sweating beyond temperature-control needs. Primary hyperhidrosis often affects both underarms, palms, soles or the face. Generalised or new sweating may be secondary to a medicine or medical condition.
What you may notice
- Wet clothing without heat or exercise
- Sweaty palms or soles affecting grip
- Episodes on both sides
- Skin irritation in folds
- Sweating disrupting work, sleep or social life
Why it can happen
Primary hyperhidrosis reflects overactive nerve signalling and often begins earlier in life. Secondary sweating can be linked to menopause, infection, thyroid or metabolic disease, neurological conditions or medicines. Night sweats need a broader medical view.
What may help
Clinical-strength antiperspirants are a common first step. Depending on site and severity, options include iontophoresis, prescription medicines, botulinum toxin and selected devices or surgery. Treating an underlying cause comes first when sweating is secondary.
When to consult
Consult a clinician for new, generalised or night sweating, weight loss, fever, palpitations, medication symptoms or major daily impact. Sudden sweating with chest pain or breathlessness needs urgent care.
Evidence and sources
- DermNet. Hyperhidrosis [Internet]. Auckland: DermNet; 2015 [cited 2026 Nov 7]. Available from: https://dermnetnz.org/topics/hyperhidrosis (new tab)
- National Health Service. Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) [Internet]. London: National Health Service; [cited 2026 Nov 7]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/excessive-sweating-hyperhidrosis/ (new tab)
- DermNet. Botulinum toxin [Internet]. Auckland: DermNet; 2020 [cited 2026 Nov 7]. Available from: https://dermnetnz.org/topics/botulinum-toxin (new tab)