Sweating

Sweating cools the body in hot conditions and during exercise. Excessive sweating, new sweating all over the body or night sweats may be due to primary hyperhidrosis, fever, hormones, low blood glucose, medicines or another condition. Confusion or collapse in the heat may be heatstroke and requires an ambulance immediately.

• Visible sweat, wet clothing, dripping hands or feet and difficulty writing, gripping, wearing shoes or caring for the skin.
• Repeated symmetrical sweating of the palms, soles, armpits or face that interferes with daily functioning.
• Drink regularly according to thirst and more with prolonged heavy sweating; during hours of exercise, an appropriate electrolyte drink may help, without excessive water or salt.
• Plan strenuous activity for cooler hours, seek shade or air conditioning, wear light breathable clothing and take regular cooling breaks.
• Make an appointment for new unexplained sweating all over the body, drenching night sweats or sweating with fever, weight loss, cough or pain.
• For urgent GP care outside office hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediate threat to life.