What diseases can cause excessive sweating?

As a medical professional with a background in endocrinology, I have encountered various conditions that can lead to excessive sweating, medically known as hyperhidrosis. This condition can be a symptom of several underlying health issues, and it's important to understand that sweating is a normal bodily function that helps regulate body temperature. However, when it becomes excessive and uncontrollable, it can be a sign of an underlying health problem. Here are some diseases and conditions that can cause excessive sweating: 1. Diabetic Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) is a common problem in people with diabetes, especially those on insulin or other glucose-lowering medications. When blood sugar levels drop too low, the body may respond by sweating to help raise the glucose levels. 2. Endocarditis: This is an infection of the inner lining of the heart, which can cause a range of symptoms, including fever and sweating. The body may sweat as part of its immune response to fight off the infection. 3. Fever of Undetermined Cause: Persistent fever without an apparent cause can lead to excessive sweating as the body attempts to cool itself down. 4. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Anxiety can trigger the body's stress response, which can cause sweating. People with GAD may experience excessive sweating, especially during periods of heightened stress or anxiety. 5. Heart Attack: During a heart attack, the body can react with symptoms such as sweating, due to the stress and strain on the heart. 6. Heat Exhaustion: Prolonged exposure to high temperatures without adequate hydration can lead to heat exhaustion, which is characterized by heavy sweating, among other symptoms. 7. HIV/AIDS: As the immune system weakens, individuals with HIV/AIDS may experience night sweats and excessive sweating as part of their symptomatology. 8. Hyperhidrosis: This is a condition where the body sweats excessively regardless of the temperature or level of physical activity. It can be primary (no known cause) or secondary (due to another medical condition). 9. Infections: Various types of infections, including bacterial, viral, or fungal, can cause the body to sweat excessively as part of the immune response. 10. Medications: Some drugs can cause sweating as a side effect, especially those that stimulate the sympathetic nervous system. 11. Nocturnal Hyperhidrosis: Excessive sweating that occurs during sleep can be caused by various factors, including hormonal imbalances or certain sleep disorders. 12. Neuroendocrine Tumors: Certain tumors can cause excessive sweating due to the hormones they secrete. 13. Obesity: Excess body weight can lead to increased sweating as the body works harder to cool itself. 14. Overactive Thyroid (Hyperthyroidism): An overactive thyroid can speed up metabolism, leading to increased sweating. 15. Pharmacological Agents: Certain medications, like those used for Parkinson's disease, can cause excessive sweating. 16. Postural Hyperhidrosis: Some people may experience excessive sweating when they are standing or sitting for long periods. 17. Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase body temperature and lead to increased sweating. 18. Tuberculosis: This bacterial infection can cause night sweats and fever as part of its symptoms. 19. Uncontrolled Blood Sugar Levels: In addition to hypoglycemia, uncontrolled hyperglycemia in diabetes can also lead to excessive sweating. 20. Withdrawal Syndromes: Sweating can be a symptom of withdrawal from certain substances, including alcohol or drugs. It's crucial for individuals experiencing excessive sweating to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. Treatment options can range from lifestyle changes to medications or, in some cases, surgery.

Health conditions that may cause excessive sweating include:Diabetic hypoglycemia.Endocarditis (an infection of the inner lining of the heart)Fever of undetermined cause.Generalized anxiety disorder.Heart attack.Heat exhaustion.HIV/AIDS.Hyperhidrosis.More items...