The cold has been present for several weeks, the thermostat remains very low on a daily basis, but despite everything, are you sweating? If this seems strange, it is perfectly explained. Here is the insight from Dr. Gérald Kierzek, emergency physician and medical director of True Medical.
Sweat, an internal thermostat that doesn’t take a vacation
Sweating is not just a response to heat waves; it is a survival mechanism driven by the hypothalamus.
“The human body is a thermal machine which must maintain its internal temperature around 37°C. explains Dr. Gérald Kierzek. To achieve this, it uses the sweat glands: the eccrine glands, distributed throughout the body, and the apocrine glands, located mainly in the armpits.
The process, called evaporative thermolysis, helps cool the skin as sweat evaporates. But this system does not only react to the sun. It is activated as soon as internal heat rises (effort, digestion) or when the sympathetic nervous system releases adrenaline following a peak of stress. In winter, if the air is cold, evaporation is sometimes slower, making that sweat more noticeable and unpleasant.
Stress, clothing and hormones, the culprits of the cold
Why does this humidity persist under our sweaters? Several factors are involved:
- Stress and anxiety. The cold can paradoxically accentuate the feeling of unease linked to stress, triggering immediate emotional sweating;
- Primary hyperhidrosis. “This is a hypersensitivity of the sweat glands, often of genetic origin.“, specifies Dr. Kierzek. In winter, wearing several layers of clothing traps moisture, aggravating the problem;
- Medical causes. An overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), menopause and its hot flashes, or even diabetes can disrupt your internal thermostat;
- Lifestyle. Caffeine, alcohol and spicy foods stimulate the nervous system and increase body temperature, regardless of the weather.
Good daily reflexes to stay dry
To limit the damage, a few simple adjustments to your routine can make a difference:
- The choice of materials: Choose natural fibers like cotton, linen or merino wool. “Absolutely avoid waterproof synthetic materials which act like a dryer” advises the doctor;
- The plate and hydration: Reduce stimulants (coffee, alcohol) and drink cool water regularly to dilute sweat and regulate your temperature;
- The environment : Keep your interior between 18°C and 20°C. Too heated and dry air can irritate the skin and restart the sweating cycle;
- Stress management : Deep breathing exercises or gradual exposure to cold (lukewarm to cool showers) can help “desensitize” the nervous system.
What medical solutions if the discomfort persists?
If the sweating is very heavy or becomes a social handicap, it is time to consult.
Solutions exist, from the most natural to the most advanced:
- Antiperspirants: Based on aluminum salts (like Etiaxil), they block the sweat ducts. Apply them in the evening to dry skin for maximum effectiveness;
- Natural alternatives: Alum stone or essential oils of lavender and tea tree can help regulate flow and limit odors;
- Basic treatments: “In more severe cases, iontophoresis (mild electric current), botulinum toxin injections or oral treatments may be considered. emphasizes Dr. Kierzek.
Winter sweating is not inevitable, but a signal sent by your body. Whether it’s too many layers of clothing or poorly managed stress, identifying the cause is the first step toward comfort. “If this sweating is accompanied by fatigue or weight loss, a thyroid check-up with your GP remains essential.concludes Gérald Kierzek.