What causes perspiration?

Fevers: A common cause of increased sweating is fevers. A fever occurs when the body temperature is higher than normal. In general, the normal human body temperature should be around 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. Fevers typically occur in response to infections. Patients often experience excessive sweating once the body temperature starts to return to normal. This is how the body cools itself down.

Foods and beverages: Certain foods and beverages may cause increased sweating. For instance, eating spicy foods or drinking hot beverages or drinks that contain caffeine or alcohol (such as coffee, tea, or beer) may increase sweating.

Heart attack: Severe sweating may also occur during a heart attack, when the heart becomes damaged due to a loss of blood supply. In addition to increased sweating, patients may also experience pain or pressure in the chest that radiates to the left shoulder, arm, or back. A heart attack is a medical emergency. Anyone who experiences these symptoms should seek immediate medical treatment.<

Medications: Certain medications, including certain antipsychotic medications, morphine, high doses of the thyroid hormone thyroxine, and pain relievers (such as aspirin or acetaminophen), may increase sweating.

Menopause: A common symptom of menopause is hot flashes, which occur when a woman suddenly starts sweating because she feels extremely warm. Some women may also experience night sweats during sleep followed by chills. These symptoms occur because menopausal women have low estrogen levels. Symptoms usually last for less than one year after the last menstrual period.

Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism): Excessive sweating may also be caused by hyperthyroidism, which occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much of the hormone thyroxine. This hormone helps control growth and the rate at which the body uses energy (metabolism). Excessive sweating is a common symptom of hyperthyroidism along with sudden weight loss and irregular heartbeat.

Certain types of cancer: Some types of cancer, such as leukemia or lymphoma, may cause people to sweat more or less than normal.

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