What Are the Causes of Underarm Sweating?
Sweating under the arms is a normal bodily function. When sweating is excessive, which is referred to as hyperhidrosis, this may be a sign of a medical condition that requires evaluation by a doctor. Although babies do not usually sweat because the skin glands that make sweat are undeveloped during infancy, older children and adults may frequently experience underarm sweating. Consider this information derived from the Mayo Clinic and the National Library of Medicine about the causes of underarm sweating.
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Exercise
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A vigorous or long workout is a common cause of sweating under the arms (reference 1). Underarm sweating while exercising can cause body odor to quickly develop, which can be embarrassing for those exercising in close proximity to others. Intense exercises such as aerobics, biking and running may be more likely to cause underarm sweating than moderate exercise such as walking, swimming or yoga.
Fever
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Fevers may cause sweating under the arms, especially during an illness (reference 3). Children with infections such as the flu or a cold may experience underarm sweating and feel clammy to the touch. Adults may also experience sweating under the arms while sick with a fever.
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Foods
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Some people may experience underarm sweating after eating certain types of foods. Peppers high in capsaicin may cause sweating, as can curries and other spicy foods (reference 3). Foods or beverages containing caffeine may also cause sweating, especially when consumed in large quantities.
Medical Disorders
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Excessive sweating under the arms may be a result of existing medical conditions (reference 2). Thyroid disorders, low blood sugar and hot flashes during menopause can cause underarm sweating. Sweating under the arms that is accompanied by chest pain and anxiety may be caused by a heart attack and requires urgent medical attention.
Medications
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Sweating under the arms or in other parts of the body may be a side effect of using certain types of medications (reference 3). The use of thyroid medications, anti-psychotic drugs and analgesics can cause sweating. Suddenly stopping the use of narcotic pain killers or alcohol may cause withdrawal symptoms that include sweating.
Stress
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Underarm sweating is a common symptom of emotional stress or feeling nervous or anxious (reference 1). Sweating may occur during a particularly stressful event, such as a job interview or public speaking engagement. Sweating may also occur while sleeping and experiencing a particularly disturbing dream or nightmare.
Weather
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Warm or hot weather is a cause of underarm sweating, especially in people who spend a significant amount of time outdoors (reference 1). Sweating is how the body tries to cool itself off and can occur in indoor areas that are too warm or while standing in close proximity to others. Humid weather or dressing too warmly for the weather can also result in underarm sweating.
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