Sweating occurs when the patient feels the skin suddenly become wet and cold, usually with chills and tremors. It is a symptom that usually affects the hands, armpits, feet and back. Cold sweat may be a sign of various diseases and conditions, in some cases also associated with life-threatening events such as heart attack, and therefore require urgent recourse to medical care. Cold sweat is also a symptom of intestinal illness such as dysentery, occlusion and indigestion.
What kind of diseases can be associated with cold sweats?
The following diseases may be associated with cold sweats:
- AIDS
- Sickle cell anemia
- Anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Indigestion
- Myocardial infarction
- Hypoglycemia
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Menopause
- Mononucleosis
- Toxic shock syndrome
- Septic Shock / Sepsis
- Tuberculosis
- Burns
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 cold sweats?
The remedies vary depending on whether the disorder is linked to acute and persistent or transient conditions. In the first case, for example, if it is caused by stress or anxiety and it could be enough to rest, drink a glass of water and relax. If the subject lacks air suddenly, he should be helped to lie and one should avoid having too many people around. In all other not transient cases you immediately alert the E.R.
When is most likely to contact your doctor in case of cold sweats?
If the problem occurs with a sudden shortness of breath and does not diminish in a while, and is associated with chest, abdomen or arm (angina) pain, mental confusion, pale skin, weakness, fainting, high fever, swelling of the face, tongue or mouth or difficulty swallowing it is necessary to ask for the timely intervention of the emergency room.
