Why Do We Sweat When Nervous?

Sweating, or perspiring, is releasing a salty liquid from the body through the sweat glands. Sweating is a natural, essential function that helps regulate body temperature. People sweat for various reasons including exercise, hot weather and spicy food, as well as anxiety, stress and nervousness.

The Sympathetic Nervous System

• The sympathetic nervous system (SNS) is one of two systems that send signals to regulate sweat production. When the SNS is activated, it releases adrenaline. Adrenaline binds to receptors and causes the "fight or flight" response. Increased sweating is a symptom of this response.

Nervousness

• Nervousness is an emotion that helps people perceive and understand danger. When a person becomes nervous, the brain activates sweat glands---again, triggering the "fight or flight" reaction. Sweat will help cool off the individual. Meanwhile, sweating lubricates areas such as the armpits, where skin brushes against skin and causes chafing. This process may be activated even if there is no real threat.

Calming Nerves

• There are different ways to calm nerves. Before speaking in front of a crowd or meeting a big date, a nervous individual might take several minutes to think about something unrelated that is of special importance in the person's life. Family and faith are examples. According to a UCLA study, as reported in a John Tesh "Intelligence for Your Life" article, this kind of reflection beforehand "lowers your stress hormones and shuts down your body's stress response, like shaking or sweaty hands." (See References 2) Immediately before the event begins, the person should take several deep breaths and hold them for one second each.

When to See a Doctor

• Although sweating can be uncomfortable and unsightly, it is important to remember it is normal. However, you may want to contact a doctor if you find yourself sweating much more or less than usual, you notice a change in your body odor, you experience night sweats for no apparent reason or sweating effects your daily routine. The doctor may prescribe a strong antiperspirant or explore underlying causes.