What Causes Excessive Sweating?

Hyperhidrosis is often due to overactive nerves triggering excessive sweating for a variety of reasons.
You may suffer hyperhidrosis due to:
- Genetics
- A medical condition, such as diabetes or gout
- Side effects from medication or supplements
Why Types of Hyperhidrosis Are There?
There are two basic types of hyperhidrosis:
- Primary hyperhidrosis, which occurs with no underlying cause, but can be triggered by common external factors like caffeine, stress, exercise, etc.
- Secondary hyperhidrosis, in which sweating is the result of another medical condition, a side effect of medication use, etc.
Introducing Our New Provider, Saman Shahid
Saman, a board-certified member of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants, graduated Magna Cum Laude from George Mason University and graduated Summa Cum Laude from The George Washington University. She specializes in comprehensive dermatological care for patients of all ages, prioritizing preventive health, early skin cancer detection, and patient education.

Who Gets Hyperhidrosis?
You may develop hyperhidrosis regardless of your age, race, gender, or other factors. The condition is especially prevalent in adolescents or women going through menopause. However, it is believed that the condition is more prevalent than reported, as many people never seek a diagnosis or treatment.
How Can I Prevent Excessive Sweating?
Some steps you can take to prevent excessive sweating include:
- Wear natural, breathable fibers
- Keep track of your triggers and avoid them if possible
- Use antiperspirant rather than a deodorant
- Apply antiperspirant before bed

Why Treat Excessive Sweating?
Often, our patients seek treatment for excessive sweating because they find the condition to be embarrassing or annoying to manage. In addition, excessive sweating in certain areas of the body can lead to other complications, including skin infections like athletes’ foot.
How Can I Treat Hyperhidrosis?

Typically during a clinic visit, a board-certified dermatologist can diagnose hyperhidrosis through a detailed clinical history and physical exam. Occasionally, lab tests may be needed to diagnose the specific cause of your excessive sweating, but usually, these are unnecessary. Once the diagnosis has been made, your dermatologist will recommend treatment options which may include:
- OTC clinical-strength or prescription antiperspirant
- Botox injections
- Oral anticholinergics
- Topical glycopyrrolate
- Tap water iontophoresis
- Miradry
Hyperdidrosis FAQs
At what age does hyperhidrosis stop?Hyperhidrosis can start at any age and may continue throughout life. In some cases, symptoms may improve with age. Can drinking water stop excessive sweating?While staying hydrated is important, drinking water alone won't stop excessive sweating. Managing the underlying cause is key. Can hyperhidrosis be cured naturally?There is no proven natural cure for hyperhidrosis, but lifestyle changes like managing stress or using natural antiperspirants can help control symptoms. Does dehydration cause hyperhidrosis?Dehydration does not cause hyperhidrosis; however, excessive sweating can lead to dehydration if fluids are not replenished. Does hyperhidrosis get worse with age?Hyperhidrosis can worsen with age or stress, but it can also remain stable or improve in some individuals. How common is hyperhidrosis?Hyperhidrosis is more common than many people realize. It can affect both children and adults and often goes undiagnosed because people may feel embarrassed to talk about it. The good news is—you're not alone, and effective treatments are available to help you feel more comfortable and confident. How do you get rid of hyperhidrosis?Treatment options for hyperhidrosis include prescription antiperspirants, cosmetic Botox or Dysport injections, oral and topical medications, or iontophoresis Is hyperhidrosis only under arm?No, hyperhidrosis can affect various areas of the body, including the hands, feet, face, and underarms. What can a dermatologist do for excessive sweating?At Arlington Dermatology, our providers can recommend treatments like prescription-strength antiperspirants, cosmetic Botox or Dysport injections, prescription oral anticholinergics, or other therapies to manage excessive sweating. |
Schedule an Appointment
Excessive sweating can be a source of embarrassment and frustration, but thankfully, a board-certified dermatologist can help. At Arlington Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists create custom treatment plans that work with your unique needs and symptoms, so you can move on from worrying about hyperhidrosis.
To schedule your appointment at Arlington Dermatology, please call our office or request an appointment through our online form.