7 Signs You're Sweating Too Much

There can be such a thing as too much sweat. Yes, it's natural to sweat heavily when exercising (I personally leave a class drenched), but if you're sweating throughout the day, something might be up. Knowing the signs you're sweating isn't normal ahead of time will help you decide if you call into that category, and if so, you'll know that seeing a physician for some guidance could help find a solution.

As a certified health coach, I work with clients on figuring out whether their health conditions are normal or if there's a greater problem that should be addressed with a doctor. Abnormal sweating, while less common, can definitely be something of concern, as it can interfere with daily life tasks and cause insecurities or discomfort (who wants to be that person who is sweating profusely at the dinner table, right?). So, if you notice you're sweating too much, and maybe smelling bad along with it, it might be time to figure out some ways to fix the issue and freshen up. Here are 7 signs your sweating isn't normal and you might need some extra help. Luckily, there are a few ways to reduce the sensation and feel more comfortable in the day.

1. It's In Your Genes

According to Dr. Michael Jonesco, sports medicine physician at OSU Wexner Medical Center over email with Bustle, it's "most commonly due to a benign condition called essential hyperhydrosis. This commonly starts in adolescence and results from over active sympathetic nerve firing (fight or flight response)." It shouldn't be too worrisome, but if symptoms are severe, a meeting with your primary care provider or a dermatologist can provide treatment options, Jonesco adds.

2. You Have Other Health Conditions Associated With It

Jonesco says, "Diabetes, thyroid disease, menopause, or even chronic alcohol use can cause hormonal changes that disrupt our body's thermoregulation (ability to regulate temperature)." Yet, you can test for it: "A good history and basic lab work can assist to screen for many of these conditions," Jonesco explains.

3. You Sweat When It's Not Hot Out

According to experts at WebMD, if you're sweating when you're just chilling on the couch, watching a movie, and eating popcorn (mild, not spicy popcorn) with friends, you might have excessive sweating. Unless it's hot out, you shouldn't be sweating in a natural state.

4. You're Taking Medications

"It should be noted that certain medications (commonly blood pressure and anti-depressant medications) can also have hormonal effects that can contribute to excessive sweating," says Jonesco. If you start sweating a lot, talk to your doctor to see if there's a different prescription you can take, as you shouldn't be sweating so much.

5. You Smell Bad All The Time

Yes, stress related sweating can lead to bad odors, but if you're not super stressed and you're chronically smelling bad during the day, it could mean you're sweating an abnormal amount and it's leaving lingering odors on your body and clothing.

6. You Have A Fever

If you have a fever or other sickness symptoms, along with heavy sweating, it could mean your sweating and condition isn't normal and should be checked with a doctor. Something scary could definitely be happening, explains Jonesco.

7. You Have Sweat Stains

If you notice sweat stains on your clothes or around your groin, it could mean you're sweating too much and you should get checked by a professional for further guidance. Normal sweating shouldn't leave stains, as it's a mark of heavy, consistent sweat.

If you notice these signs, you could have a sweating problem. To get it fixed (which I'm sure you'll want to do), see a doctor to figure out what's going on.