Normal sweating is called perspiration. It's a natural bodily function that helps regulate body temperature. Sweating, or perspiration, releases a salt-based fluid from your sweat glands in response to changes in body temperature, external temperature, or emotional state. Common areas for sweating include the armpits. While sweating is a normal process, excessive sweating, unrelated to heat or exercise, is known as hyperhidrosis.
Understanding the Difference Between Normal Sweating and Hyperhidrosis
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Normal Sweating (Perspiration): This is the body's natural cooling mechanism. It occurs in response to heat, exertion, or emotional stress and is generally not excessive. Most people begin using antiperspirants during puberty to manage sweat and odor. [Healthline]
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Hyperhidrosis: This is excessive sweating that's not related to heat or exercise. It can be so significant that it soaks through clothing. [Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, Healthdirect, NHS inform, Yale Medicine] Hyperhidrosis can impact daily life and may have underlying causes. [Healthdirect] Sometimes a sweat test is used to determine if the cause of excess sweating is related to cystic fibrosis. [Cystic Fibrosis Foundation]
The key difference lies in the amount of sweating and whether it occurs in situations where the body doesn't need to cool down. If sweating interferes with daily activities or occurs without a clear trigger, it warrants medical attention. [NHS] Other conditions such as obesity, thyroid disease, and diabetes can also lead to increased sweating. [Better Health Channel]
