Sweating Disorders: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Q: Sweating Disorders: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Hello Ivy netizens： Here is some information about anhidrosis. <br>If you experience the following symptoms, you should consult a dermatologist for diagnosis. <br>Anhidrosis is associated with X-linked chromosomal abnormalities, and patients often have sparse hair follicles, such

Sweating disorder

When the weather gets warmer, my body temperature rises, but I never sweat and my temperature stays above 37 degrees Celsius.
Soon after, I start experiencing severe headaches that only feel somewhat better with scraping therapy.
My body tends to be hot in summer and cold in winter, which is different from others.
Could this be autonomic nervous system dysfunction? Which medical specialty should I consult? Is there a chance it won't get better?

ivy, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/05/15

Dr. Huang Jianling reply Family Medicine

Hello Ivy netizens: Here is some information about anhidrosis.
If you experience the following symptoms, you should consult a dermatologist for diagnosis.
Anhidrosis is associated with X-linked chromosomal abnormalities, and patients often have sparse hair follicles, such as very thin or absent hair on the scalp, eyebrows, armpits, and even pubic areas.
Due to a reduced number of sweat glands, some patients may have few or no sweat glands, leading to decreased sweating, and in severe cases, complete absence of sweating.
Patients without sweat glands have difficulty dissipating heat, making them prone to heat exhaustion in high temperatures, and they often present with abnormalities in teeth and nails as well.
Sincerely, Dr.
Huang Jian-Ling, Department of Family Medicine, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2004/05/15

More Info

Understanding sweating disorders is crucial for diagnosing and managing various health conditions. Sweating, or perspiration, is a vital physiological process that helps regulate body temperature. When the body overheats, the sweat glands produce moisture that evaporates, cooling the skin. However, some individuals experience abnormal sweating patterns, which can manifest as either excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) or insufficient sweating (anhidrosis).

In your case, where you experience elevated body temperature without sweating, leading to severe headaches, it may indicate a condition known as anhidrosis. Anhidrosis can be caused by several factors, including autonomic nervous system dysfunction, skin disorders, certain medications, or underlying health conditions such as diabetes or thyroid issues. The autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions, plays a significant role in regulating sweating. If it is not functioning correctly, it can lead to an inability to sweat, even in hot conditions.

Your description of feeling "summer heat in winter" suggests a possible dysregulation of your body's thermoregulatory mechanisms. This could indeed be related to autonomic nervous system dysfunction, which can be influenced by stress, anxiety, or other psychological factors. It is essential to consider that the body’s response to temperature can vary significantly among individuals, and what you are experiencing may not be typical.

To address your concerns, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional who specializes in internal medicine or neurology. They can conduct a thorough evaluation, including a detailed medical history, physical examination, and possibly some diagnostic tests. These tests may include blood tests to check for underlying conditions, sweat tests to assess your sweating response, and imaging studies if necessary.

Treatment options for sweating disorders depend on the underlying cause. If your condition is related to autonomic dysfunction, lifestyle modifications, such as staying hydrated, wearing breathable clothing, and avoiding extreme temperatures, may help. In some cases, medications that stimulate sweating or address the underlying condition may be prescribed. If the issue is linked to anxiety or stress, psychological interventions, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, may also be beneficial.

It is understandable to feel concerned about your symptoms and their implications for your health. However, many sweating disorders can be managed effectively with the right approach. Early intervention and a comprehensive treatment plan can lead to significant improvements in quality of life. Remember, you are not alone in this, and seeking help from a qualified healthcare provider is the first step toward finding relief and understanding your condition better.

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