Sweating is the body’s natural response to several situations and serves as the body’s attempt to regulate temperature; however, when that natural response moves into overdrive and causes sweating when the body is not hot, a medical condition may be the cause. Excessive sweating, otherwise known as hyperhidrosis, is sweating that occurs even when the temperature is not hot and when the body is not exercising. The condition can affect any part of the body, particularly the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and underarms. The excess sweating associated with the condition is often to such an extreme it disrupts typical daily activities and causes anxiety or even embarrassment.
It is normal for the body to sweat when exercising or during exertion. Likewise, the body sweats when exposed to a hot environment, a high-stress situation, or anxiety; however, excessive sweating exceeds these normal situations. Sweating that is characterized as excessive typically involves sweating of the hands, feet, underarms, or face and not the entire body. Such sweat may soak through clothing or even drip off the hands. Likewise, episodes typically occur at least once a week with no obvious cause or reason.
The underlying cause of extreme sweating and excessive underarm sweating is the over-activity of the nerves that trigger the sweat glands. The nerves become overstimulated and trigger the sweat glands to produce an excessive amount of sweat. This response may be triggered by medication, menopausal hot flashes, low blood sugar, overactive thyroid, cancer, heart attack or infectious disease.
As embarrassing as a problem as excessive sweating can be, effective treatments are crucial. Many natural options offer immediate relief from the issue and manage the associated concerns as well – odor, etc. Activated charcoal, apple cider vinegar, and honey taken orally decrease sweat production and can help diminish issues.
Likewise, sea salt applied to the area decrease sweat production and reduces odor. Additional options include castor oil, formalin, iodine, liquid chlorophyll, sage fluid extract, and magnesium.
Continue reading below for recommendations from our readers as to what home remedies and supplements helped their hyperhidrosis.
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