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Conditions and Diseases > Skin Forum > Abnormal Sweating- Causes?
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Q: Abnormal Sweating- Causes?
asked by: tuinazhongyi on November 15th, 2008
New User
I wasn't sure where to post this question, because I'm not entirely sure what the causes are. My closest assumption is that it is an endocrine dysfunction.

I have been suffering on and off for the past 12 or so years with abnormal sweat at my palms, feet and axillary areas. At it's worst, I'll just sit at my desk and watch the sweat drip down my arm. I leave little puddles on the base of my laptop. Strangely it will at times get better with exertion. I don't sweat while sleeping. The quality is mostly clear, not sticky. It has no odor, but after wearing a shirt too much, regardless of washing it regularly, it will get musty.

This first started when I turned 18. I've dealt by wearing things that don't show it, and by changing frequently. When I can't I'm definitely more susceptible to being chilled, my pores open and I get goosebumps everywhere. I remember that for a few years it wasn't such a problem, but I can't remember what the circumstances were- other than perhaps less stress in my immediate surroundings.

I've tried everything from certain dry to other anti-perspirants- which make it worse. I've been seeing an acupuncturist; that helps, but we haven't gotten to the bottom of the problem. Now it's like every other day, instead of all day everyday. I hate it, if I could associate an emotion with it, it would be shame. Embarassed

What are the causes of something like this? Is this a parasympathetic/ sympathetic disorder? Do you have any suggestions with regards to stopping it?
Thanks, in advance with any help!
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replied on November 17th, 2008
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Causes of sweating include:

* Alcohol
* Caffeine
* Cancer
* Certain medicines, including thyroid hormone, morphine, drugs to reduce fevers, and medicines to treat mental disorders
* Emotional or stressful situations (anxiety)
* Exercise
* Fever
* Infection
* Low blood sugar
* Menopause
* Overactive thyroid gland
* Spicy foods (known as "gustatory sweating")
* Warm temperatures
* Withdrawal from alcohol or narcotic pain killers

However, excessive sweating occurs without such triggers. Those with a sweating disorder called "hyperhidrosis" seem to have overactive sweat glands. The uncontrollable sweating can lead to significant discomfort, both physical and emotional. Diagostic tests for this sweating disorder include:

* A Starch-iodine test. An iodine solution is applied to the sweaty area. After it dries, starch is sprinkled on the area. The starch-iodine combination turns a dark blue color wherever there is excess sweat.
* A Paper test. Special paper is placed on the affected area to absorb the sweat, then weighed. The heavier it weight, the more sweat has accumulated.

Some of the causes of hyperhidrosis can be serious. I suggest that you consult your doctor, and this web site for more help. www.sweathelp.org
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