What should I do about excessive underarm sweating?

In daily life, some individuals enjoy physical exercise; however, after exercising, they experience excessive sweating under the arms, often accompanied by an unpleasant odor. So, what can be done about excessive underarm sweating?

What to Do About Excessive Underarm Sweating

If you experience excessive underarm sweating, wear loose-fitting clothing and minimize physical activity to reduce sweating. Antiperspirants—either oral medications or topical applications applied directly to the underarms—can also help decrease sweat production. For definitive treatment of excessive underarm sweating, consult a dermatologist at a hospital for surgical options.

Excessive underarm sweating is one clinical manifestation of hyperhidrosis and falls under the category of localized hyperhidrosis. Most affected individuals have a family history of the condition. It commonly occurs during childhood or adolescence, and tends to diminish naturally in adulthood—though it may persist as chronic hyperhidrosis. The underlying causes are broadly classified into two categories: disease-related and functional. Medical conditions associated with hyperhidrosis include hyperthyroidism, hyperpituitarism, pregnancy, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, febrile illnesses, and certain genetic syndromes. In contrast, most cases of functional hyperhidrosis are linked primarily to psychological factors such as mental stress, emotional excitement, anger, fear, or anxiety.

Regarding treatment for excessive underarm sweating, personal hygiene should be prioritized. Dietarily, avoid spicy and pungent foods—including raw onions and raw garlic—as these strongly odorous items can influence body odor through metabolic processes and be excreted via sweat, resulting in unpleasant smells. Instead, increase intake of protein-rich foods such as milk and soy products. We hope this information proves helpful!