is excessive
Sweating commonly associated with
Shock and other
Medical Emergency conditions.
Recognition of diaphoresis is expected of
EMT s.
''Wikipedia does not dispense medical advice. When in doubt, always consult a physician.''
Normal physical causes of diaphoresis include exercise,
Menopause , fever, spicy foods, and high environmental temperature. Strong emotions (anger, fear) and remembrance of past trauma can also trigger profuse sweating.
Diaphoresis may be associated with some abnormal conditions, such as
Hyperthyroidism and shock. If it is accompanied by unexplained weight loss or fever or by palpitations, shortness of breath, or chest discomfort, a physician should be consulted. Diabetics relying on insulin shots or oral medications may have low blood sugar, which can also cause diaphoresis.
Various drugs (including
Caffeine ,
Morphine ,
Alcohol , and certain antipsychotics) may be causes, as well as
Withdrawal from alcohol or narcotic painkiller dependencies. Sympathetic nervous system stimulants such as
Cocaine and
Amphetamines have also been associated with diaphoresis.
Diaphoresis is also seen in an acute
Myocardial Infarction , from the increased firing of the
Sympathetic Nervous System .
Diaphoresis can also be caused by many types of infections, often accompanied by
Fever and/or
Chills . Most infections can cause some degree of diaphoresis and it is a very common symptom in some serious infections such as
Malaria and
Tuberculosis .
When diaphoresis is pathologic, the underlying cause should be treated. When the cause is menopause, the woman may wish to ask her physician about estrogen replacement.
Once pathological and environmental causes of diaphoresis are ruled out by a physician, it is more accurately referred to as
Hyperhidrosis .
