Sweating is the release of liquid containing salts (the sweat ) through the sweat glands to control the temperature of the body. The amount of sweat produced depends on the number of sweat glands present and may be influenced by several factors, including a high ambient temperature, the physical activity, situations that make you nervous, angry, embarrassed, or afraid, or physiological conditions such as menopause.
Increased sweating can also be associated with the intake of alcohol, caffeine, spicy foods or certain drugs (such as morphine, antipyretic and medicinal products based on thyroid hormones), fever, infections, hypoglycemia, abstinence from alcohol or narcotics, anxiety or real diseases such as hyperhidrosis or some cancers.
What kind of diseases can be associated with sweating?
The following diseases may be associated with sweating:
- Amyloidosis
- Angina pectoris
- Panic attack
- Cholecystitis
- Renal colic
- Coronary artery disease
- Dengue
- Dyslipidemia
- Pulmonary embolism
- Myocardial infarction
- Hyperhidrosis
- Hyperthyroidism
- Malaria
- Graves-Basedow's disease
- Thyroid nodules
- Pneumonia
- Sepsis
- Tetanus
Remember that this is not an exhaustive list and it is highly recommended to consult your doctor, in case of symptom’s persistence.
What is the therapy for sweating?
The best remedy depends on the cause of sweating. In general, after sweating it is important to drink a lot (water or drinks rich in minerals), lower the temperature of the environment to prevent further sweating and rinse your face and body in case the salts in the sweat have annoyed the skin.
When is most likely to contact your doctor in case of sweating?
If the condition is a prolonged problem and without a plausible explanation and if it is associated with symptoms such as chest pain, fever, rapid heartbeat and heavy, shortness of breath, or weight loss you should contact a doctor.
