Excessive underarm sweating, or axillary hyperhidrosis, can be caused by neurological malfunction triggered by certain foods or stressful situations. It can also be symptomatic of metabolic or systemic disease, and treatment depends on the underlying cause. Antiperspirants, prescription strength formulations, anticholinergic drugs, botulinum toxin A injections, or sympathectomy are potential treatments.
In apparently healthy individuals, common causes of excessive underarm sweating could include certain foods or stressful situations that trigger neurological malfunction. This condition is medically referred to as axillary hyperhidrosis. While embarrassing, the condition is generally not harmful. Excessive underarm sweating can also be symptomatic of metabolic or systemic disease, and treatment depends on the underlying cause.
Axillary hyperhidrosis typically occurs when the nerves become overstimulated and respond inappropriately due to excitation of the sympathetic nervous system. Under these circumstances, the brain triggers the release of cortisol and epinephrine, which initiate sweating. Once activated, researchers believe that a steady flow of these hormones causes people to experience excessive sweating that is unrelated to normal thermal regulation. Hyperhidrosis can be confined to the underarm region, but can also accompany excessive sweating from other areas of the body.
Spicy or spicy foods are a common cause of excessive underarm sweating in people suffering from this disorder. Often, these types of foods contain capsaicin, which tricks the brain into thinking that the body needs to react to the warm sensation produced in the mouth and digestive tract. The brain reacts by stimulating the nerves and producing sweat. The response can also occur when people eat or drink foods or drinks that are too hot. Drinks and foods containing caffeine can also elicit a sympathetic reaction and produce excessive sweating in people with hyperhidrosis.
Emotional or mentally stressful situations tend to produce the fight or flight response commonly associated with the sympathetic nervous system. People with hyperhidrosis might experience excessive sweating even in mildly demanding situations. As your stress level increases, so does the amount of neurological stimulation and excess sweat production.
When not associated with a neurological disorder, excessive underarm sweating could be due to a metabolic or physical condition. Extreme pain, low blood sugar, and thyroid disorders are all common causes of excessive underarm sweating. Heart conditions, disease processes occurring in the brain, or systemic infections can also initiate abnormal chemical release and excessive sweating. Any hormonal changes or deficiencies that accompany menopause frequently produce hot flashes, resulting in excessive sweating in the armpits and other areas of the body. Getting healthcare for treatable medical conditions can solve your sweating problem.
When associated with hyperhidrosis, people often use over-the-counter antiperspirants to minimize excessive underarm wetness. If commonly sold products prove ineffective, prescription strength formulations containing aluminum chloride hexarate may help. Doctors may prescribe anticholinergic drugs, which produce relaxing effects and can calm the sympathetic nervous system. Botulinum toxin A injections or sympathectomy are other medical alternatives.
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