What to do about excessive sweating
Nov 07, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, excessive sweating may be caused by factors such as physical weakness, excessive mental stress, qi deficiency, yin deficiency, or hyperthyroidism. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition through general measures, medication, or other treatments under a doctor's guidance. In daily life, keep clothing dry and change out of sweat-soaked clothes promptly to avoid catching a chill.
In general, excessive sweating (night sweats or spontaneous sweating) may be caused by factors such as physical weakness, excessive mental stress, qi deficiency, yin deficiency, or hyperthyroidism. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to identify the underlying cause and, under a doctor's guidance, improve symptoms through general management, medication, and other treatments. Specific causes are analyzed below:
1. **Physical Weakness**: Prolonged fatigue and inadequate nutrition can lead to decreased bodily functions. Qi deficiency impairs the body’s ability to control fluid retention, resulting in excessive sweating, often accompanied by fatigue and pallor. Maintain regular sleep patterns and avoid staying up late. Consume nourishing foods such as chicken, red dates, and Chinese yam, and engage in mild exercises like walking or tai chi to gradually strengthen constitution.
2. **Excessive Mental Stress**: Long-term anxiety and tension can overstimulate the sympathetic nervous system, causing abnormal sweat gland secretion, manifesting as night sweats or sweating during emotional fluctuations. Practice stress-relief techniques such as meditation or listening to soothing music. Avoid overthinking before bedtime, and seek psychological counseling when necessary to regulate emotional health.
3. **Qi Deficiency Syndrome**: In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this condition is diagnosed as impaired organ function due to insufficient qi, leading to reduced control over perspiration. Sweating tends to worsen after physical activity and is often accompanied by shortness of breath and reluctance to speak. Under medical guidance, medications such as Bu Zhong Yi Qi Wan (Tonify the Middle and Augment the Qi Pills), Yu Ping Feng Granules, or Ren Shen Yang Rong Wan (Ginseng Nourishing Splendor Pills) may be used to improve symptoms.
4. **Yin Deficiency Syndrome**: Deficiency of bodily yin fluids leads to internal "deficient fire," forcing fluids to escape outward, primarily causing night sweats. Symptoms may also include dry mouth and throat, and heat sensations in the palms, soles, and chest. Under medical supervision, medications such as Liu Wei Di Huang Wan (Six-Ingredient Pill with Rehmannia), Zuo Gui Wan (Left Return Pills), or Zhi Bai Di Huang Wan (Anemarrhena, Phellodendron, and Rehmannia Pill) may help alleviate symptoms.
5. **Hyperthyroidism**: Excessive secretion of thyroid hormones increases metabolism and heat production, leading to increased sweating, often accompanied by palpitations, hand tremors, and weight loss. Treatment may include antithyroid medications such as methimazole tablets, propylthiouracil tablets, or carbimazole tablets, as prescribed by a physician.
In daily life, maintain dry clothing and change out of sweat-soaked clothes promptly to prevent chills. Maintain a balanced diet and reduce intake of spicy or stimulating foods. Stick to a regular routine and avoid overexertion. Comprehensive lifestyle adjustments involving sleep, diet, and exercise can help manage excessive sweating and support overall physiological stability.
