Why are my Palms so Sweaty? Cause and Remedies

There are several reasons why your palms may be excessively sweaty. It could be a result of certain health conditions, medications, or even your body’s reaction to stress or anxiety. In fact, palms becoming sweaty is a normal response to distressing or daunting situations. However, when this becomes a frequent occurrence or happens without any apparent reason or trigger, it may be a sign of a condition known as palmar hyperhidrosis, more generally referred to as hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating.

Hyperhidrosis is a condition characterized by excessive sweating that often occurs in the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, armpits, and other parts of the body. It is caused by overactive sweat glands, which produce sweat in larger quantities than needed to cool the body. This condition can develop at any age and affects both men and women.

The Causes of Excessive Sweating of the Palms

Primary hyperhidrosis is often a hereditary condition – meaning it runs in families. It usually starts during childhood or adolescence. Experts aren’t sure why it affects some people, but they believe it could be due to problems with the nervous system.

Secondary hyperhidrosis, on the other hand, is sweating caused by a medical condition or as a side effect of certain medications. Conditions that might cause this include hyperthyroidism, diabetes, menopause, certain types of cancer, and nervous system disorders. Sweating can also be a side effect of many types of medication, from antibiotics and antidepressants to painkillers and blood pressure medications.

Managing and Dealing with Excessive Sweating

The good news is, hyperhidrosis can be managed and treated. Basic lifestyle changes and home remedies can alleviate the condition to some extent. Certain strong antiperspirants, armpit shields to protect clothing, clothing made from natural materials, and avoidance of trigger foods and activities may all contribute to the management of this condition.

But in more severe cases, medical treatments might be necessary. This can range from Botox injections, which block the nerves that trigger your sweat glands, to surgical options like thoracic sympathectomy, where the nerves causing excessive sweating are cut or clamped.

Speak to your doctor if you are concerned about your sweating, especially if it’s disrupting your daily life or causing you emotional distress. A healthcare professional can offer advice, and if necessary, refer you to a dermatologist for specialist treatment.

How to Treat Hyperhidrosis

Dealing with hyperhidrosis involves a combination of medical treatments, lifestyle changes, and sometimes surgery. If you believe your sweaty palms are a result of hyperhidrosis, it is suggested that you seek medical help. A doctor or dermatologist can recommend the right method of treatment for your specific condition. This can often include prescription strength antiperspirants, nerve-blocking medications, iontophoresis (a procedure using low-level electrical impulses to block the sweat glands), Botox injections, and in more extreme cases, surgery.

In certain cases, natural options and home remedies are beneficial. This can include dietary modifications, such as avoiding foods that seem to trigger sweating, staying hydrated to keep body temperature down, and wearing loose, breathable clothing. Also, stress management techniques, such as yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises, can help control sweating by reducing anxiety and stress.