Unusual Sweating: What Sticky Sweat Could Mean for Your Health - Internal Medicine

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Recently, my sweating has been abnormal, and when I do sweat, it feels sticky?


My mother has high blood pressure and experiences dizziness.
Recently, she has noticed that her sweating is different than usual and feels stickier.
Is this a symptom? Please help answer! Thank you!

Miss Zhong, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/07/17

Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine


Sweat that is stickier does not indicate a specific disease.

Reply Date: 2005/07/17

More Info


Unusual sweating, particularly when it becomes sticky or different from what one is accustomed to, can indeed be a sign of underlying health issues. In your mother's case, given her history of high blood pressure and episodes of dizziness (which you referred to as "炫昏"), it is essential to consider several factors that could contribute to this change in sweating.

Firstly, sticky sweat can be a result of several physiological changes. Normal sweat is primarily composed of water and salt, but when the body is under stress, whether from physical exertion, emotional stress, or medical conditions, the composition of sweat can change. In some cases, the body may produce sweat that contains more proteins or other substances, leading to a sticky feeling. This can occur in conditions such as hyperhidrosis, where the sweat glands are overactive, or in cases of dehydration, where the body tries to conserve water.

Additionally, certain medications, particularly those used to manage high blood pressure, can also affect sweating patterns. For instance, some antihypertensive medications can lead to changes in how the body regulates temperature and sweat production. If your mother has recently started a new medication or changed her dosage, this could be a contributing factor.

Moreover, sticky sweat can sometimes indicate an underlying metabolic issue. Conditions such as diabetes can lead to changes in sweat production, as can thyroid disorders. If your mother has not been diagnosed with such conditions, it may be worth discussing these possibilities with her healthcare provider.

Given your mother's existing health conditions, it is crucial to monitor her symptoms closely. If the sticky sweat is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, such as increased dizziness, changes in heart rate, or any other unusual sensations, it would be advisable to seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare professional can conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include blood tests to check for metabolic issues, review her current medications, and assess her overall health status.

In summary, while sticky sweat can be a benign issue in some cases, it can also signal underlying health problems, especially in individuals with pre-existing conditions like high blood pressure. It is essential to keep an open line of communication with her healthcare provider to ensure that any changes in her health are appropriately addressed. Regular check-ups and monitoring her symptoms will help in managing her health effectively. If you have further concerns or if her symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

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