Do you sweat excessively even when it is not hot or when not performing physical activities? If yes, you may be suffering from a health condition called diaphoresis. With diaphoresis, the sweat glands overreact to certain conditions and produce more sweat than usual. We spoke to Dr Dhiraj Bhattad, Consultant, Internal Medicine Department, Sir H. N. Reliance Foundation Hospital and Research Centre, who listed possible health conditions that can cause diaphoresis and its treatment.
Diaphoresis can affect the entire body or specific areas, such as the palms, armpits, or face. Though not life-threatening, it can be very bothersome. It can be caused by various medical conditions, medications, or natural life events that alter the hormone levels in the body, which need medical attention.
Health Conditions That Cause Diaphoresis
Hyperthyroidism
In this condition, the thyroid gland produces more thyroid hormones which regulates metabolism. It increases the body’s metabolic rate and causes the body to produce more heat and sweat. It also causes palpitations, anxiety, tremulousness, and excessive bowel movements.
Menopause
Menopause can cause fluctuations in hormonal levels, which leads to hot flashes, mood swings, night sweats, and sometimes even intense sweating that occurs anytime during the day or night.
Also Read: Excessive Sweating: Causes And Treatment
Hypoglycaemia
When blood sugar is low, particularly in diabetics, stress hormones are released, which can cause excessive sweating. It is accompanied by dizziness, palpitations, tremors, irritability, confusion, and excessive hunger.
Neurological Disorders
Some neurological disorders, such as brain stem stroke, Parkinson's disease, and autonomic neuropathy can cause sweating due to damage or dysfunction of the nervous system.
Withdrawal Symptoms Of Substance Abuse
When a person with substance abuse abstains from it, they may have withdrawal symptoms which can result in excessive sweating apart from tremors, anxiety, agitation, palpitations or even seizures.
Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis is the medical term for excessive perspiration that only affects certain body areas, such as the hands or feet. Though not dangerous, it can be irritating and embarrassing for the person.
Cancers
Some cancers, such as lymphoma, leukaemia, carcinoid tumours, and pheochromocytoma can cause sweating due to hormonal imbalances or tumour growth.
Also Read: 5 Home Remedies For Sweaty Hands And Feet In Summers
Treatment For Diaphoresis
The treatment of diaphoresis depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Some general measures that can help reduce sweating include:
- You may practise relaxation techniques, such as meditation and yoga
- Wearing loose-fitting clothes made of natural fabrics
- Avoiding smoking and drinks that increase sweating, such as excessive coffee or tea
- Staying well hydrated
When To See A Doctor
If the sweating is so profuse that it affects day-to-day life or if there are multiple other symptoms listed above, then you need to consult your family physician.
Some specific treatments that may be prescribed by a doctor include:
Antiperspirants
These are topical products that contain aluminium chloride compounds that block the sweat glands and reduce perspiration.
Medications
These include oral anticholinergics (Oxybutynin and glycopyrrolate) that inhibit the nerve signals that stimulate sweating. In addition, benzodiazepines help reduce anxiety and beta-blockers reduce rapid heart rate and anxiety.
Hormone Therapy
This includes oestrogen or progesterone supplements for menopausal women or anti-thyroid medications for hyperthyroidism patients.
Procedures To Reduce Diaphoresis
Botox injections that paralyse the nerves that control sweating; iontophoresis that uses electric currents to block sweat glands; and surgery that removes or destroys sweat glands or nerves.
