Sweating Easily May Not Be Natural, Dr. Bowles’ Advice | Seen in USA Today

Nothing compares to the feeling of standing in public and looking down to find you have sweat through your shirt. For some people, this may only be an occasional experience through activities, but for others these conditions could be an everyday struggle. Dr. Alexandra Bowles, also seen in USA Today, shares the causes of sweating and what those who are facing more extreme circumstances should consider.

Why do I sweat so easily?

For most people, sweating is just the body’s way of cooling itself down. However, some people naturally sweat more than others. This can be influenced by things like genetics, hormones, stress, exercise, or even caffeine. One thing I remind patients is that sweating more than the person next to you does not necessarily mean there’s a problem. It may simply be how your body regulates temperature.

What causes sweating easily?

Some people have sweat glands that are simply more sensitive to triggers like heat, stress, or physical activity. Even a small rise in temperature can be enough to get the body’s cooling system going. Hormonal changes like perimenopause, anxiety, spicy foods, and certain medications (like SSRIs) can also make people feel their body is reacting more quickly than others.

How can someone tell if they sweat more easily than others?

Most people have a pretty good sense of when their sweating feels excessive compared to those around them! If you’re regularly sweating through clothing, needing to change shirts during the day, or avoiding certain activities because of it, that’s often a sign that you’re producing more sweat than average. It’s important to remember, though, that there’s a wide range of what’s considered normal.

What can sudden sweating be a sign of?

In many cases, sweating more easily is simply the way someone’s body is built or genetics they were born with. However, noticeably worse symptoms, or happening without an obvious trigger, are signs that outside factors may be involved. These factors can sometimes be associated with thyroid conditions, hormonal changes, certain medications, cancer, or hyperhidrosis condition. Hyperhidrosis is a specific condition that causes excessive sweating. The good news is that there are ways to evaluate what’s causing it, as well as treatment options if it’s becoming bothersome.

When should I bring it up with a doctor?

I usually tell patients to bring it up if the sweating is affecting their daily life, causing embarrassment, disrupting sleep, or if it’s changed significantly from what they’ve experienced in the past. A primary care doctor is often the best place to start. They can help rule out any underlying medical causes. If needed, they may refer you to a dermatologist with a number of treatments available. Options like prescription medications and Botox under the arms, can make a meaningful difference with excessive sweating.

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