What causes excessive sweating on the hands?

Oct 08, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, excessive sweating of the hands may be caused by individual differences, emotional stress, body temperature regulation, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. In daily life, one should maintain a healthy lifestyle, eat a light diet, exercise regularly, wear loose and breathable clothing, and replenish fluids as needed.

Generally, excessive sweating of the hands may be caused by individual differences, emotional stress, thermoregulation, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to identify the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Individual Differences

Each person's constitution and distribution of sweat glands vary. Some individuals may be more prone to sweaty palms under the same environmental conditions. Excessive sweating due to individual differences typically does not require special treatment.

2. Emotional Stress

When a person is tense, anxious, or excited, the sympathetic nervous system becomes activated, leading to increased sweating in the hands. Learning relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help alleviate emotional stress.

3. Thermoregulation

In high-temperature environments or after intense physical activity, the body sweats to dissipate heat and lower body temperature; hand sweating is one manifestation of this process. Stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures, rest appropriately, and wear breathable clothing to aid in cooling the body.

4. Hyperthyroidism

Excessive iodine intake may lead to hyperthyroidism, which accelerates metabolism and increases metabolic rates throughout the body, including heightened activity of sweat glands in the hands. Symptoms may also include palpitations and anxiety. Treatment under medical supervision may include medications such as methimazole tablets, propylthiouracil tablets, and propranolol hydrochloride tablets.

5. Diabetes

Diabetes is associated with sedentary lifestyle and obesity. Poor blood glucose control can lead to neuropathy and autonomic nervous system dysfunction, resulting in abnormal sweating in areas such as the hands, possibly accompanied by symptoms like increased thirst, appetite, and urination. Under medical guidance, medications such as metformin tablets, glipizide extended-release tablets, and acarbose tablets may be used for treatment.

In daily life, maintaining a healthy lifestyle—including a light diet, regular exercise, wearing loose and breathable clothing, and timely hydration—is recommended.