What causes hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis is a condition that causes excessive sweating beyond what is necessary for regulating body temperature. It can affect various areas of the body, including the hands, feet, face, underarms and scalp.

Understanding the causes of hyperhidrosis is key to finding effective management strategies.

In this article, we explore the different factors that contribute to hyperhidrosis and answer common questions surrounding its triggers.

The causes of hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis can be classified as primary or secondary hyperhidrosis.

In the case of primary hyperhidrosis, this is caused by a fault in the nervous system, which means that the sweat glands are stimulated even when the body doesn’t need to sweat. It isn’t clear what cause primary hyperhidrosis, but it can be inherited or triggered by hormonal factors. Primary hyperhidrosis generally begins in childhood or adolescence.

Secondary hyperhidrosis tends to start when you’re an adult, and is usually triggered by an underlying medical condition or due to medication.

If you experience hyperhidrosis at any age you should always consult a doctor to ensure that it isn’t symptomatic of an underlying condition.

Read more about the causes and symptoms of hyperhidrosis.

Common questions regarding the causes of hyperhidrosis

Can anxiety cause hyperhidrosis?

Yes, anxiety can trigger hyperhidrosis. When the body experiences stress or anxiety, the nervous system activates the sweat glands as part of the “fight or flight” response. People with anxiety-related hyperhidrosis often experience excessive sweating on the hands, face, and underarms during stressful situations.

Can weed cause hyperhidrosis?

Studies suggest that weed does not directly cause hyperhidrosis. Instead, cannabis induces mental relaxation, which in turn reduces the body’s sympathetic activity. This physiological response may influence how the body regulates sweating, though individual reactions can vary.

Source: https://hyperhidrosis.com/alcohol-drugs-hyperhidrosis

What causes asymmetric hyperhidrosis?

Asymmetric hyperhidrosis occurs when one side of the body sweats more than the other. This condition may be due to nerve damage, spinal cord injuries or underlying neurological conditions. It can also occur idiopathically, meaning there is no identifiable cause.

What causes craniofacial hyperhidrosis?

Craniofacial hyperhidrosis refers to excessive sweating on the face and scalp. It is commonly triggered by heat, stress or spicy foods. In some cases, it may be linked to overactive sweat glands or an underlying neurological condition.

Find more information about craniofacial hyperhidrosis. 

What causes hyperhidrosis in hands?

Palmar hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating of the hands, is often a result of overactive sympathetic nerves. This condition usually begins in childhood or adolescence and may have a genetic component.

Palmar hyperhidrosis occurs when the sweat glands in the hands are overactive, often due to a hyperactive sympathetic nervous system. It is usually a form of primary hyperhidrosis with no underlying medical cause.

Find more information about hyperhidrosis in hands.

What causes axillary hyperhidrosis?

Axillary hyperhidrosis refers to excessive sweating in the underarms. This can be caused by overactive sweat glands, stress, or certain medical conditions. It often begins in adolescence and can be managed with treatments such as antiperspirants, Botox injections, or prescription medications.

Find out more about axillary hyperhidrosis.

What causes secondary hyperhidrosis?

Secondary hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating caused by an underlying medical condition or external factor. Unlike primary hyperhidrosis, which is localised, secondary hyperhidrosis often affects the entire body. Common causes include infections, hormonal imbalances, and metabolic disorders.

What medical conditions and medications cause hyperhidrosis?

Several medical conditions can lead to hyperhidrosis, including:

• Hyperthyroidism
• Diabetes
• Menopause
• Parkinson’s disease
• Infections (such as tuberculosis)

Some medications can increase sweating as a side effect. These include:

• Antidepressants
• Pain relievers
• Hormone therapy drugs
• Blood pressure medications
• Some antibiotics

Source: https://www.sweathelp.org/home/understanding-hyperhidrosis.html

Can alcohol cause hyperhidrosis?

Yes, alcohol can contribute to hyperhidrosis which is often referred to as ‘alcohol sweats’. Alcohol affects the nervous system and dilates blood vessels, leading to increased body temperature and excessive sweating, especially on the face and neck.

Source: https://www.hyperhidrosiscumc.com/alcohol-and-hyperhidrosis-dealing-with-alcohol-sweats/

Can birth control cause hyperhidrosis?

Hormonal changes caused by birth control pills can lead to increased sweating in some individuals. This is due to fluctuations in oestrogen and progesterone levels, which can affect body temperature regulation.

Can caffeine cause hyperhidrosis?

Caffeine is a stimulant that activates the central nervous system, leading to increased heart rate and sweating. People who are sensitive to caffeine may experience excessive sweating after consuming coffee, tea, or energy drinks.

Can stress cause hyperhidrosis?

Yes, stress is a common trigger for hyperhidrosis. When stressed, the body activates the sweat glands in response to heightened adrenaline levels. This can lead to excessive sweating, particularly in the hands, feet, and underarms.

What causes focal hyperhidrosis?

Focal hyperhidrosis is a type of primary hyperhidrosis that affects specific areas of the body, such as the hands, feet, face, or underarms. It is usually genetic and caused by an overactive nervous system.

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