When the water in the sweat evaporates, it leaves the salts (sodium, chloride, and potassium) behind on your skin, which is why your skin tastes salty. The loss of excessive amounts of salt and water from your body can quickly dehydrate you, which can lead to circulatory problems, kidney failure, and heat stroke. It is therefore important to drink plenty of fluids when you exercise or are outside in high temperatures.
When you are nervous, anxious, or afraid, there is an increase in sympathetic nerve activity in your body which increases secretion from your adrenal gland. These substances act on your sweat glands, particularly those on the palms of your hand and your armpits, to make sweat which feels like a “cold” sweat.
Women experiencing excessive sweating, usually on the palms of the hand or the armpits, that is not caused by emotional or physical activity can be caused by any of the following:
- Hormonal imbalances such as menopause
- Overactive thyroid gland which increases body metabolism and heat production
- Certain foods and medications such as coffee with its high amounts of caffeine
- Over-activity of the sympathetic nervous system
This condition can be uncomfortable and embarrassing, but can be treated by medications and surgical procedures.
Related Story: What’s Normal When It Comes to Sweating?
Updated October 18, 2008
