Excessive Sweating in Dementia Patients: Causes and Solutions

Q: Excessive Sweating in Dementia Patients: Causes and Solutions

Teresa： Hello, for elderly patients with dementia who are unable to get out of bed or turn over by themselves, experiencing sweating and body tremors, the possible causes and management principles are as follows： 1. <br>Fever： Measure the body temperature; if there is a fever, se

Profuse sweating all over the body?

Hello, I have an elderly family member with dementia who is currently being fed through a nasogastric tube.
Recently, they experienced shortness of breath due to phlegm, and their heart rate dropped to around 45, which required admission to the intensive care unit.
They have since been discharged and are continuing to take the medications prescribed by the hospital.
However, they are now experiencing excessive sweating and body tremors, which were not present before or during their hospitalization.
The indoor temperature is maintained between 26-27 degrees Celsius.
I would like to know why this is happening and how to address it, considering that the elderly person is unable to get up or reposition themselves.

Teresa, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/08/02

Dr. Liang Yinpan reply Geriatrics

Teresa: Hello, for elderly patients with dementia who are unable to get out of bed or turn over by themselves, experiencing sweating and body tremors, the possible causes and management principles are as follows: 1.
Fever: Measure the body temperature; if there is a fever, seek medical attention promptly.
2.
High indoor temperature: Lower the indoor temperature to between 24-26 degrees Celsius.
3.
Wearing excessively heavy clothing: It is advisable to wear light, breathable cotton clothing in the summer.
4.
Thick bedding or cushions: In the summer, it is better to sleep on an air mattress and use only a light blanket.
5.
Medication side effects: Please inform the physician during follow-up visits if there is a need to change medications.
6.
If none of the above causes are present, it may be due to brain degeneration or injury: Please inform the physician during follow-up visits if medication can help improve the condition.
Best wishes from Changhua Hospital.

Reply Date: 2012/08/02

More Info

Excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis, in dementia patients can be a complex issue that may arise from various underlying causes. In the case of your elderly relative, who is experiencing excessive sweating and body tremors after a recent hospitalization, it is essential to consider several factors that could contribute to these symptoms.

Firstly, one potential cause of excessive sweating in dementia patients is the body's response to stress or discomfort. Dementia can lead to confusion and agitation, which may trigger a stress response, resulting in increased sweating. Additionally, if the patient is experiencing any pain or discomfort, this could also lead to excessive sweating as the body reacts to these sensations.

Another important consideration is the possibility of medication side effects. Many medications prescribed for dementia or other comorbid conditions can have side effects that include sweating and tremors. For instance, antipsychotic medications, which are sometimes used to manage behavioral symptoms in dementia patients, can lead to increased sweating. It is crucial to review the medications your relative is taking and discuss any potential side effects with their healthcare provider.

Environmental factors should also be taken into account. While you mentioned that the room temperature is maintained between 26-27 degrees Celsius (approximately 78-80 degrees Fahrenheit), this may still be too warm for some individuals, especially those who are less mobile and unable to regulate their body temperature effectively. Ensuring that the patient is dressed in lightweight, breathable clothing can help alleviate excessive sweating. Additionally, using lightweight bedding and ensuring proper ventilation in the room can also contribute to a more comfortable environment.

Dehydration can also play a role in excessive sweating. If the patient is not adequately hydrated, their body may react by sweating more in an attempt to cool down. It is essential to ensure that they are receiving enough fluids, especially if they are being fed through a nasogastric tube. Monitoring their fluid intake and output can help assess their hydration status.

In some cases, excessive sweating may be a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as an infection or fever. Given that your relative had a recent hospitalization and experienced respiratory issues, it is essential to monitor their overall health closely. If they develop a fever or show signs of infection, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

Finally, if the excessive sweating and tremors persist despite addressing these factors, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare professional who specializes in geriatric medicine or neurology. They can conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if there are any underlying neurological issues contributing to these symptoms and recommend appropriate interventions.

In summary, excessive sweating in dementia patients can result from a combination of stress, medication side effects, environmental factors, dehydration, or underlying medical conditions. It is essential to monitor the patient's overall health, review their medications, and create a comfortable living environment to help manage these symptoms effectively. If the situation does not improve, seeking further medical advice is recommended to ensure the best possible care for your relative.

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