Diaphoresis is the medical term that describes excessive sweating due to an underlying health condition or a medication.
Diaphoresis is different from normal sweating such as sweating from exercise. It is sweating more than normal for no clear reason. The excessive sweating usually occurs over your entire body instead of one part.
Other names: Secondary hyperhidrosis
Signs
A sign of diaphoresis is sweating across the entire body rather than specific areas like armpits or hands. The sweat becomes visibly apparent, soaking through clothes or dripping from the body. It can even occur during sleep, drenching sheets in perspiration. This condition typically manifests in adulthood.
Causes
- Menopause
- Pregnancy
- Hyperthyroidism
- Diabetes
- Heart attack
- Substance withdrawal
- Cancer
- Anaphylaxis
- Medications
Diagnosis
The healthcare professional will assess whether the excessive sweating is due to diaphoresis by evaluating particular symptoms and existing health issues. They may inquire about medical background and conduct a physical examination to pinpoint the underlying cause. Additionally, they might suggest laboratory tests or imaging studies if necessary.
Prevention
- Regular exercise
- Healthy diet
- Drinking more water
- Manage blood sugar
- Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing
- Wear breathable shoes and socks
- Avoiding hot weather and/or using fans or air-conditioning
- Applying an absorbent powder or baking soda to areas that sweat profusely
Nursing Interventions
- Promote a cool and comfortable environment. This can be done by keeping the room temperature cool, using fans or air conditioners, and wearing loose-fitting, breathable clothing.
- Encourage frequent fluid intake. This is important to prevent dehydration, which can worsen diaphoresis.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol. These substances can trigger sweating.
- Manage stress. Stress can worsen diaphoresis. Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and yoga can help to reduce stress.
Additional considerations
- It is important to identify and treat the underlying cause of diaphoresis. This may require a visit to a doctor or other healthcare provider.
- Patients should be educated about the importance of skin care. This includes washing the skin regularly with a mild soap and water, and using a moisturizer.
- Patients should be encouraged to wear light, loose-fitting clothing made from natural fibers.
- Patients should be advised to avoid situations that trigger sweating, such as hot weather and strenuous activity.
Treatment
Treatment for diaphoresis will vary depending on the cause of the condition. The excessive sweating may clear up after treating an underlying medical condition.
If a certain medication is causing the condition, the healthcare provider may change the dose or prescribe a different one. Otherwise, they may recommend one of the following ways to manage the condition:
- Prescription-strength antiperspirants: Antiperspirants that contain 10% to 15% aluminum chloride can plug up the sweat glands. This sends a message to the body to stop producing sweat.
- Botox injections: OnabotulinumtoxinA injections (Botox®) may provide short-term relief. These injections can temporarily prevent the stimulation of the sweat glands on certain areas of the body.
- Iontophoresis: Iontophoresis is a medical procedure that uses a small electrical shock or current to temporarily reduce sweating on the hands and feet.
- Oral anticholinergic medications: Prescription anticholinergic medications can prevent the stimulation of the sweat glands. Examples of these medications include oxybutynin and glycopyrrolate.