Condition guide

Hyperhidrosis

Also known as Excessive sweating, Zyada paseena, Sweaty palms.

Cut aloe vera leaf, a bowl of oat cream, oat grains and chamomile flowers on sage linen

In short

Hyperhidrosis means sweating much more than the body needs to stay cool, often on the palms, soles, underarms or face. It usually starts in childhood or the teenage years and is not a sign of poor hygiene. It can affect work and social life, and several treatments can reduce it, but new widespread sweating in adult life should be checked for an underlying cause.

Typical signs

  • Sweating that drips or soaks through clothes without heat or exercise
  • Wet palms that make it hard to hold a pen or phone
  • Sweaty feet with odour or frequent fungal infections
  • Sweating that interferes with daily activities

When to see a dermatologist

  • Sweating is affecting your work, studies or social life
  • Sweating started suddenly in adult life or is all over the body
  • You sweat heavily at night
  • Sweating comes with weight loss, fever or a racing heart

Signs vary from person to person and several skin conditions look alike. Only an examination can confirm a diagnosis.

Read the guides

Full, referenced articles on hyperhidrosis written for Indian skin, with answers to common questions.

Worried about hyperhidrosis?

Book an online consultation with Dr. Maria Ansari for an assessment and a written care plan made for you.

This page is a short summary for general education and does not replace a consultation with a qualified dermatologist. Do not start, stop or change any medicine based on this page. Read the full medical disclaimer.