Excessive Sweating: Thyroids Issues or Hyperhydrosis?

Since I gave birth five years ago I began sweating excessively. It didn't happen immediately, in fact I believe it took about 7-12 months. But I've had the problem ever since and it is soooo frustrating, not to mention uncomfortable.

I did some research online about Thyroid issues and found that it is common for new mothers to have these issues go undiagnosed. But the article also mentioned that it goes away on its own. Mine hasn't so I'm thinking there may be a deeper issue here.

When I go to the gym, I sweat...ALOT! When I'm walking in 20 degree weather I'm literally dripping. I'm not significantly overweight, I have about 10-15 pounds to lose, otherwise I would consider that the problem. Whatever it is, I know this isn't normal.

I did some research on hyperhydrosis as well and it was mentioned several times that its a problem that usually appears during puberty. I'm 27 and this is something that I started noticing at 22 (after I was already fully developed).

My question is, if you have an overactive thyroid and one of the symptoms is excessive sweating, how was it diagnosed? Was it something the doctor diagnosed immediately?

I went to my old family doctor a few years ago and she said I was fine, so I never thought about it again. But the other day I watched an episode of Oprah and there was a woman with the same problem. Dr. Oz mentioned that she should have her thyroids checked out.

I'd really like to deal with this problem. It's not only disgusting but it's also socially crippling.

I'm just wondering if there is anyone else out there like me. And how do you deal. 

I don't think it would hurt at all if you got some blood testing done and had your thyroid levels checked.  All you need is a simple blood tests - you will want to see results for "Free T3, Free T4, and TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)" and your doctor can then diagnose from there.

I am hypothyroid and do suffer intermittent (about twice per day) periods of sweating but these are more of a menapausal type of occurrence as opposed to a work-out sweat. 

If it is your thyroid acting up, there are lots of excellent threads here at c-c or you can search on-line for tons of info as well!

Good Luck!

I sweat a LOT, too.  I feel your pain.  I started sweating a lot when I was about 25 or so, and I've never had a kid so it might not be related.  When it started I assumed it was because of all the diuretics I drank: coffee in the morning, alcohol at night, tea and soda at various times.  The past few years I've cut down on all of that and pretty much only drink water and I still sweat, so it can't be that.  I would be really interested to hear what you find out.

I think I'll have some tests done. It might be a good idea to get a second opinion. I'm going to see a dermatologist next week as well. He specializes in the underarm area. I don't really want to be injected with anything...but I might just consider it. I'm still looking for a doctor that specializes in generalized hyperhydrosis. One step at a time...thanks for the advice :)

i think i need to get that checked out as well - i never really considered it a problem because my mother and father both have the same issue....the only way i've coped with it is using baby powder then deoderant re-upping alot, but that doesnt do much... i wear black or white alot because it doesnt show as much.

Same here sahrens. It really takes a toll on my fashion sense. I used to love to experiment with colours but now I have to stick to dark colours and white. I've heard that hyperhydrosis is genetic so that may have something to do with it.

So I went to the dermatologist yesterday and was diagnosed with hyperhydrosis. They don't know what causes it, apparently it's some kind of mystery thing. He prescribed Botox. Still iffy about whether or not I'll go through with it but he says the results are usually very good. It's an expensive procedure though but not considered cosmetic so a good medical plan will cover it.

I'm SO glad you posted this.  I have suffered with this for years, although it's never been diagnosed.  My mom has it as well--we actually went to a wedding last weekend, the reception was in the evening outside at this gorgeous old antebellum mansion.  Well, anyway, she had to leave after 45 minutes b/c the humidity was so bad.  I stayed, but I literally looked like someone had dumped a bucket of water over my head.  And, yes, everyone at the wedding was hot and sweaty, but no one compared to us.  I've had my thyroid checked, too, and it's fine (I didn't really think I'd be hyperthyroid anyway, considering I'm overweight).  I'd also heard about the botox thing, but knew it would be very expensive--so I hadn't really considered it.  But now that you point out that insurance may pay for it, I'll do some more research.  Thanks!

I'm glad you could benefit Irwiggins. There are so many people that have it and don't know what to do. It is a medical condition. The dermatologist mentioned that there are a lot of people who think it is something they shouldn't be bothering the doctor with. But while it's not life threatening it is hard to live with.

If you haven't already you should check out www.sweatmanagement.ca.

Good luck!

That is a canadian website, but I'm sure there are many other websites depending on where you are from that discuss this topic in depth.

My son had hyperhydrosis, excessive sweating of the hands, underarms and feet.  Nothing helped: prescription antipersperants, electroshock therapy.  We did not try Botox because of his fear of needles and the need for repeat treatments!  However, we did the researched and decided to proceed with the surgery for Hyperhydrosis, performed by Dr. Reisfeld (www.sweatypalms.com) in Beverly Hills, CA.  We live in Arizona and made the trip to CA to have the surgery.  Even though my son was only 15 at the time, I am glad that we went through with the surgery.  He was embarassed and self-concious about his sweaty palms (couldn't hold hands, school work "wet" with sweat).   Now, he sweats "normally" from armpits and has dry hands.  Best thing we've every done for him!

I'v got a huge set of thyroid probs, and sweeting is one of them sigh.

There's not much to be done, apparently, except frequent showers and a strong deo.

I've dound out that putting my feet into luke warm water with salt helps. Don't ask me why, but it really does.