Hyperhidrosis Explained: Why Do Some People Sweat More Than Others?

Though it is normal for everyone to sweat, there are some who are notably on the sweatier side compared to others. In medical terms, this condition actually refers to hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating.

What is Hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis refers to the condition where the sweat glands of the body are overactive. Because of this overactivity, perspiration happens in body spots that others typically would not.

This excessive sweating is not always linked to exercise or heat. At times, the sweating could be excessive enough to drip off one's hands or soak one's clothes.

Around two to five percent of individuals in the US are dealing with hyperhidrosis. This number, however, could be higher, as several people keep their symptoms to themselves despite the troubles that they could be facing.

Why People Sweat

All people sweat. This sweat mostly comprises water, but it also has calcium, chloride, potassium, and magnesium.

Sweating is a natural mechanism that takes place when the temperature of the body goes high. In such conditions, the sweat glands get to work in order to cool the body down. As such, it is ideal to keep the body at a temperature of 37 degrees Celsius or 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit.

Melissa Holtz, CNP, a nurse practitioner, explains that sweating aids with thermal regulation, fluid and electrolyte balancing, and skin hydration. Sweating may also occur when one is nervous.

Why Some Sweat More Than Others

However, for those dealing with hyperhidrosis, the sweat glands work much harder. Holtz explains that this is an exaggerated response of the body to stimuli that are normal.

Primary hyperhidrosis results from faults in the nerve signals. These signals trigger the sweat glands of the eccrine and make them overactive. In most cases, this excessive sweating affects the underarms, soles, palms, and even the face.

For this kind of hyperhidrosis, there is no medical cause. It may also run among families.

Secondary hyperhidrosis, on the other hand, results from having another medical condition or taking medication. This kind of hyperhidrosis may lead to sweating of the entire body. Diabetes, thyroid problems, menopausal hot flashes, certain canter types, infections, and nervous system disorders are all conditions that could lead to secondary hyperhidrosis.

Other factors, such as anxiety and alcohol consumption, could also lead to excessive sweating. Stress hormones are capable of triggering the sweat glands, which leads to elevations in blood pressure and heart rate. This, in turn, results in a higher body temperature. Emotional stress may make people sweat on the soles of their feet or the palms of their hands.

Alcohol consumption may also lead to heart rate increases and skin blood vessel widening. As such, this could lead to sweatiness. For those who are experiencing alcohol withdrawal, excessive sweating and night sweats could be part of their symptoms.

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