Why do I sweat even when I'm not active? Kids Ask

Aired on Lifetime Television
Sunday, January 15 and May 7, 2006
Show 302

Michaela Powell and Alex Smith:

Dr. Lisa, why do some people sweat even when they're just sitting around?

Dr. Lisa:

We can understand sweating when we are at the gym or at a school dance. But here is the question we would like to know. How can we start sweating when we are just sitting around? Well, that happens to everyone sometimes. You usually sweat to cool down your body, but you also sweat when you're nervous or scared. Sweating is normal, and the best thing you can do is to shower regularly and try different deodorants or anti-perspirants, till you find the one that works best for you. But if the sweating is excessive and you can not seem to get it under control, you will probably want to see your doctor. It could be hyper hydrosis or abnormal sweating, which can be embarrassing and make you feel uncomfortable at school and around friends. There are some very effective ways to treat it, but in most cases, sweating is just a normal and sometimes annoying part of life.