Tuesday, March 4, 2014

What Causes Excessive Sweating

Exercise


Sweat is created in the body by sweat glands as a result of heat build-up. It is a mechanism that the body uses to cool itself off. One of the most common times this is seen is during exercise. When you are exercising, your body's internal temperature is turned way up. The sweat glands then release sweat to keep you cool. Sweating can become excessive when exercise is performed in warm buildings or outdoors in hot and humid climates.


Stress


Some people sweat excessively during emotional situations, such as during moments of fear, anger, embarrassment or feeling nervous about something.


Saunas


Saunas are used for a number of different reasons. Some people use them to detox their bodies of toxins, some people use them for relaxation and some people who use them to lose weight. Athletes such as wrestlers and mixed martial artists use them to cut weight in a hurry for a big match. They sometimes wear sauna suits and perform exercise at the same time. This causes excessive sweating and it can even be dangerous if not properly hydrated.


Genetics


There is a hereditary condition that can cause excessive sweating. It has two different forms: general hyperhidrosis and focal hyperhidrosis. General hyperhidrosis is characterized by sweating all over the body. It is often the result of other conditions such as obesity, menopause, cancer or some type of thyroid disorder.


As the name implies, focal hyperhidrosis targets a specific area, or focus area on the body and causes excessive sweating. Some of the most common areas affected are the palms, arm pits and the feet. The sweating usually stops during sleep. According to the Mayo Clinic, the exact cause of this is unknown, but it often runs in families.