Why do some people suffer from excessive sweating and how can this annoying condition be treated?

A doctor points out that excessive sweating, especially when it occurs at rest or is accompanied by other worrying signs, may be an indicator of ischemic heart disease. Although this symptom is not among the primary symptoms and ranks twelfth in importance, knowing about it is essential.

The doctor explains: “Sweating is a natural mechanism to regulate body temperature, but excessive sweating can be caused by physiological reasons such as heat, physical exertion, or stress, and sometimes by medical conditions including endocrine disorders, infections, or tumors.”

In ischemic disease, oxygen deficiency in the heart muscle activates the sympathetic nervous system, causing involuntary heavy sweating, often cold and sticky, occurring without an obvious reason, unlike normal sweating caused by heat or exertion.

The main difference between sweating caused by ischemia and normal sweating lies in the circumstances of its occurrence and accompanying symptoms. Sweating may appear at rest or at night, accompanied by symptoms such as chest pain or pressure, shortness of breath, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and anxiety. In elderly people, diabetics, or women, symptoms may be atypical, and sweating sometimes becomes the only sign of the problem.

The doctor warns that ignoring these signs may lead to the progression of ischemic disease, myocardial infarction, cardiac arrest, or sudden cardiac death. Therefore, when heavy unexplained sweating occurs with other warning signs, a cardiologist should be consulted immediately, who may recommend an electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, 24-hour ECG monitoring, or coronary angiography. Early diagnosis allows prescribing appropriate and effective treatment.