Reference
Palmar Hyperhidrosis
Palmar hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating of the palms, which can leave the hands persistently moist or dripping. It is a common focal form of heavy sweating.
The palms have a high density of eccrine glands that respond strongly to emotional signals, so this sweating often intensifies with stress. It can affect handshakes, writing, gripping tools, and using touchscreens. Many people with palmar sweating also experience it on the soles, as the two areas behave similarly. Because the trigger is frequently emotional, the hands may be damp even when the surrounding air is cool. The visible, tactile nature of wet hands can make everyday social contact feel awkward. Clinicians may discuss options such as a procedure using a mild electrical current for this area. The word palmar simply means relating to the palm. Its strong link to emotion is why nerves or anxiety can trigger a sudden burst of dampness. Because the hands are used for so many tasks, even moderate sweating here can feel disruptive.
Palmar hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating of the palms, which can leave the hands persistently moist or dripping. It is a common focal form of heavy sweating.
What palmar hyperhidrosis means
The palms have a high density of eccrine glands that respond strongly to emotional signals, so this sweating often intensifies with stress. It can affect handshakes, writing, gripping tools, and using touchscreens. Many people with palmar sweating also experience it on the soles, as the two areas behave similarly. Because the trigger is frequently emotional, the hands may be damp even when the surrounding air is cool. The visible, tactile nature of wet hands can make everyday social contact feel awkward. Clinicians may discuss options such as a procedure using a mild electrical current for this area. The word palmar simply means relating to the palm. Its strong link to emotion is why nerves or anxiety can trigger a sudden burst of dampness. Because the hands are used for so many tasks, even moderate sweating here can feel disruptive.
In practice
Hands that leave damp marks on paper during an exam illustrate palmar hyperhidrosis driven by stress rather than heat. The same person may hesitate before a handshake, noticing their palms turn slick in a tense moment while the rest of the body stays dry. Difficulty keeping a firm grip on a pen or phone through the day is another common everyday sign.
Frequently asked questions
Why do sweaty palms get worse under stress?
Palm glands respond strongly to emotional signals. So anxiety or pressure can increase the sweating markedly, even in a cool room.
Do sweaty palms and soles occur together?
Often yes. The two areas behave similarly. Many people experience palmar and plantar sweating at the same time, since both are rich in the same glands.
Sources & further reading
Reputable organizations with more on sweating and related topics. Offered for further reading and general education, not as citations for any specific claim on this page.
General educational information about sweating. Not medical advice, and not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a qualified healthcare professional.