What causes excessive sweating of the head?

Dec 12, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Excessive sweating of the head may be caused by high environmental temperature, emotional fluctuations, hyperthyroidism, hyperhidrosis, or menopausal syndrome. It can be improved by adjusting the environment, stabilizing emotions, or medical treatment. If excessive sweating is accompanied by palpitations or abnormal weight changes, prompt medical attention is necessary. Hot environments or wearing overly thick clothing increase the body's need for heat dissipation; because the head has abundant blood vessels, it tends to sweat easily.

Excessive sweating of the head may be caused by high environmental temperature, emotional fluctuations, hyperthyroidism, hyperhidrosis, or menopausal syndrome. It can be improved by adjusting the environment, calming emotions, and medical treatment. If excessive sweating is accompanied by palpitations or abnormal weight changes, prompt medical attention is necessary.

1. High environmental temperature: Hot surroundings or wearing thick clothing increase the body's need for heat dissipation. The head has abundant blood vessels and is prone to sweating. It is recommended to lower the ambient temperature appropriately, wear breathable and sweat-absorbing clothing, and avoid going outdoors during peak heat hours.

2. Emotional fluctuations: Strong emotions such as tension, anxiety, or excitement stimulate the nervous system and lead to head sweating. It is advisable to calm down through deep breathing, meditation, and other techniques, avoid excessive stress, and maintain emotional balance.

3. Hyperthyroidism: Excessive secretion of thyroid hormones increases metabolism and heat production, leading to excessive head sweating, often accompanied by palpitations, hand tremors, and heat intolerance. Under medical guidance, medications such as methimazole tablets, propylthiouracil tablets, and propranolol tablets may be used to alleviate symptoms.

4. Hyperhidrosis: Dysfunction of the sympathetic nervous system causes abnormally increased sweat gland activity, resulting in persistent head sweating that interferes with daily activities. Patients may use medications such as aluminum acetate solution, formalin solution, or oryzanol tablets under medical supervision to relieve discomfort.

5. Menopausal syndrome: In women, declining ovarian function and reduced estrogen levels cause abnormal blood vessel dilation and constriction, leading to episodic head sweating, hot flashes, and insomnia. As directed by a physician, medications such as nylestriol tablets, oryzanol tablets, and vitamin B6 tablets may be used to improve symptoms.

Maintain cleanliness and dryness of the scalp in daily life. Choose breathable cotton clothing and pillowcases. Follow a light diet and avoid spicy or irritating foods. Maintain regular sleep patterns and engage in moderate exercise to reduce factors that trigger sweating and enhance overall comfort.