Sweat is the body’s natural reaction to overheating and is critical to keep you cool and functioning properly. When muscles are working hard, the body releases sweat to get rid of extra heat, and sweat is also necessary to detoxify the body and maintain salt balance. Your body is home to millions of sweat glands that are located all over your body, but it can be a problem if you sweat either too much or not enough.
In this article, we’re looking at excessive sweating in particular, including what causes it and how much sweating is a cause for concern. We’ll also suggest some natural solutions for excessive sweating to help you live healthier days and avoid embarrassing situations.
What Constitutes Excessive Sweating
The Mayo Clinic defines excessive sweating as sweating more than you usually do based upon your activity level, stress level, or external temperature. The medical term for this phenomenon is hyperhidrosis, and it can affect all parts of your body or just certain parts. Sweating that is accompanied by weight loss, chest pain, fever, or that mostly occurs during sleep may be a cause for concern and indicate that it is time to call a doctor.
Possible Causes of Excessive Sweating
Excessive sweating often has an underlying medical cause, but it can occur on its own when primary hyperhidrosis is present. This condition involves nerves that trigger sweat glands and cause them to perspire unnecessarily. Medical conditions, such as an overactive thyroid or menopause, can also cause excessive sweating. Other health issues associated with sweating more than usual include anxiety, leukemia, heart attack, diabetic hypoglycemia, and malaria. Obesity, stress, and heat exhaustion can lead to increased sweating as well.
Meanwhile, some medications, especially ones prescribed for high blood pressure and psychiatry, can have side effects of excessive sweating. A person’s diet can cause him or her to sweat more after eating spicy foods or foods high in sodium.
Natural Solutions for Excessive Sweating
Oftentimes, sweat is not a major cause for concern, but it can get in the way of daily activities and be a source of embarrassment. Since commercial deodorants are often packed with questionable ingredients and chemicals, you may want to look for natural deodorants or make your own DIY version at home to reduce your risk of irritation and side effects.
Herbal remedies, such as sage tea, St. John’s wort, and chamomile, have helped many people who experience excessive sweating. Natural supplements that promote healthy digestion, such as nopal cactus, can help cleanse the body and move wastes through the colon. This is good to know if digestion issues are to blame for one’s excessive sweating. It may also help to follow a gluten-free diet, practice relaxation techniques, and bathe or shower daily to rid the body of bacteria. Also, limit your intake of alcohol and spicy foods if you are prone to excessive sweating, and wear loose-fitting, moisture-wicking fabrics to reduce your chances of sweating though clothing as quickly.
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