What causes excessive sweating?

I am a heavy sweater and I notice, visiting relatives, I feel it is genetics. Does it matter being black with thicker skin?

3 answers to “What causes excessive sweating?”

A: Hyperhidrosis - Race or Skin color ?

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD

Hyperhidrosis is equally distributed in the races or skin colors and there are no published data except in Asians where there may be a racial predilection for hyperhidrosis. Asian Americans in one study showed a slightly higher incidence of hyperhidrosis. This was not of statistical significance.

A: Hyperhidrosis, or excess sweating, has many different...

D.J. Verret, MD

Hyperhidrosis, or excess sweating, has many different causes. Some of these are genetic and anxiety can worsen the condition. Race and skin type generally don't play into excess sweating though. If it is a problem, I would suggest seeing a neurologist to ensure that there isn't something more dangerous causing... more

A: Hyperhidrosis is excessive perspiration of specific...

Payman Simoni, MD

Hyperhidrosis is excessive perspiration of specific parts of the body. The most common areas are underarm, groin, and hands. It usually starts during adolescence and seems to be genetic. Anxiety can make it worse. It is interesting that some people get nervous because they sweat, then sweat more because they... more

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