Sweating

What is sweating?

Sweating occurs when the sweat glands in your skin secrete a salty fluid called sweat, or perspiration. Sweating is a normal function that serves to cool your body, often in hot or humid environments or when you exercise.

Excessive sweating may be a symptom of an underlying disease, disorder or condition. The medical term for excessive sweating is hyperhidrosis. Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) are two conditions that may cause excessive sweating.

Emotionally stressful or traumatic events are a psychological cause of excessive sweating. The consumption of certain substances, such as alcohol, caffeine or spicy foods, may also cause you to sweat. Women often experience abnormal sweating during menopause.

Sweating may be a symptom of a serious or life-threatening condition such as a heart attack. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you are sweating and experience other serious symptoms, such as a change in level of consciousness or alertness, passing out or unresponsiveness, vomiting, severe headache, shortness of breath, chest pain or pressure, sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, or if you think you may be having a heart attack.

If your sweating is persistent or causes you concern, seek prompt medical care.