Causes Of Diaphoresis

Many individuals sweat a lot, but excessive sweating with no apparent cause is a medical symptom called diaphoresis. When someone sweats excessively without just cause (such as being in a hot environment, physical exercise, or being overdressed), it could be the sign of an underlying health problem that needs addressing. Many of the potential causes of diaphoresis are dangerous, so it's essential for individuals to stay in tune with their bodies and pay close attention to its signs. Doctors can also help rule out any major health problems with simple blood tests and examinations.

With that said, here are some of the possible explanations for diaphoresis now.

Diabetes

Low blood sugar can trigger excessive sweating, which is common among individuals with diabetes. Low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia, can be treated with insulin and some lifestyle changes. Diabetes patients can experience different types of sweating problems including night sweats, sweating after eating, and excessive sweating throughout the day. If an individual has diabetes and experiences profuse sweating, they may have something called autonomic neuropathy. This condition results from nerve damage to organs that disrupt the signal between the autonomic nervous system and the brain.

Diaphoresis is just one sign of diabetes. If patients also experience dizziness, nausea, vomiting, frequent urination, and bruises or cuts that heal slowly, they should make a doctor's appointment to get tested.

Keep reading for more details on the causes of diaphoresis now.

Hyperthyroidism

The thyroid is a small gland located at the base of the neck, and it is responsible for producing hormones that regulate many important metabolic processes like heart rate, sleep, weight, and energy. When the thyroid produces too much of thyroxine, a hormone, individuals develop a condition known as hyperthyroidism. An overactive thyroid can lead to excessive sweating, weight loss, anxiety, insomnia, and difficulty concentrating. Many individuals don't realize their thyroid is causing most of their discomfort and seemingly unrelated symptoms. An overactive thyroid causes increased sweat production, which leads to diaphoresis, especially at night.

Thyroid conditions are easily diagnosed with bloodwork. Doctors can prescribe a variety of hormone supplements and medications to regulate a patient's thyroid and metabolism.

Learn about more causes of diaphoresis now.

Certain Types Of Cancer

Although rare, some forms of cancer can cause an individual to sweat profusely. Cancer is caused by the mutation of cells in the body. When cells divide uncontrollably, tumors develop, which wreak havoc on the immune system and can destroy vital organs. Millions of individuals develop cancer every year, and there are over one hundred different types of cancer that can affect the body's organs, tissues, and even bones.

Diaphoresis can indicate certain types of cancer including leukemia, lymphoma, liver cancer, bone cancer, and cancerous tumors. The exact cause of the relation between cancer and diaphoresis isn't known, but doctors speculate changes in hormone levels could be responsible.

Continue reading to discover the next cause of diaphoresis now.

Anaphylaxis

A sudden, extreme allergic reaction to something is called anaphylaxis. Individuals with shellfish and peanut allergies, for example, are at risk of this type of reaction. Anaphylactic reactions affect the body in minutes and can be life-threatening. There are two types of anaphylaxis to be aware of: uniphasic and bi-phasic. Uniphasic episodes start suddenly and progress rapidly, but do not return after treatment. Bi-phasic reactions, on the other hand, may appear mild to severe at first, but then taper off with no apparent symptoms. Over time, blood pressure and breathing problems occur.

Diaphoresis occurs when the airways swell and the body releases various chemicals to fight against the allergen. One of the most common and first symptoms, feeling hot, itchy, and flushed with sweating, is quickly followed by other, much more dangerous symptoms. Emergency treatment, including an epinephrine injection, is required to treat anaphylactic reactions.

Learn more about the potential causes of diaphoresis now.

Heart Attack

Heart attacks can happen to anyone, even individuals who have never had health problems and lead an active lifestyle. Some symptoms are well-known, such as arm numbness and chest pain, but that's not all. Diaphoresis can also indicate a greater problem with the heart; constricted blood vessels require the heart to work overtime, and during an attack, less blood being pumped throughout the body leads to increased sweating.

Knowing the warning signs can help save a life. Symptoms to watch out for include excessive sweating, feeling light-headed, nausea and vomiting, a pale face, and shortness of breath. Emergency medical attention should be sought immediately once a heart problem is suspected.