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Sweaty hands, feet, or underarms

Also called: Hyperhidrosis, excessive sweating

Very sweaty hands, feet, or underarms, even when you're not hot or exercising, is often primary hyperhidrosis. It's common, starts young, and isn't dangerous, but it can be bothersome. Strong antiperspirants and other treatments help. Sudden new sweating all over should be checked.

Common causesPrimary hyperhidrosis, anxiety, menopause, medicines
Usually serious?No
Get checked ifNew sweating all over, or night sweats
If you think it's an emergency, call 911.Thinking about suicide? Call or text 988.

Overview

Primary hyperhidrosis causes heavy sweating in specific areas and often runs in families.

Sweating all over that's new can come from menopause, infections, an overactive thyroid, low blood sugar, medicines, or other conditions.

When to get medical care

Call 911Sweating with chest pain, shortness of breath, or confusion.
Get care todaySweating with fever or a racing heart.
See a doctor soonSweating that affects daily life. New sweating all over. Night sweats with weight loss.

Causes

Causes include primary hyperhidrosis, anxiety, menopause, overactive thyroid, diabetes, infections, and medicines.

OwieClear has pages on 2 conditions that can cause sweaty hands, feet, or underarms. Each shows how soon to get care.

Common causes

Less likely causes

What you can do at home

  • Use clinical-strength antiperspirant at night.
  • Wear breathable fabrics.
  • Change socks often.

Medicines

Prescription antiperspirants, iontophoresis, Botox injections, wipes, or pills can help.

At the doctor

Diagnosed from symptoms.

Questions you may be asked

  • Where and when you sweat
  • Family history
  • Other symptoms

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

  • Thyroid and blood sugar tests if needed

Prevention

Manage symptoms.

  • Use antiperspirant
  • Wear breathable clothing

Check your symptoms

Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.

Start the symptom checker

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.