What are the key differences between cold and flu symptoms. How can you distinguish between a common cold and influenza. When should you seek medical care for your symptoms. What are effective treatments for colds and flu.

Differentiating Between Cold and Flu Symptoms

Determining whether you’re suffering from a common cold or influenza can be challenging, as both illnesses share similar symptoms. However, understanding the differences is crucial for proper treatment and management. Let’s explore the key distinctions between these two respiratory infections.

Causative Agents: Viruses Behind Colds and Flu

While both colds and flu are caused by viruses, the specific pathogens differ:

• Common cold: Caused by over 200 distinct viruses
• Influenza: Caused by a handful of specific flu viruses

This diversity in causative agents contributes to the varying severity and presentation of symptoms between colds and flu.

Symptom Intensity and Onset

One of the primary ways to differentiate between a cold and the flu is by observing the intensity and onset of symptoms:

• Cold symptoms: Typically develop gradually and are milder
• Flu symptoms: Often come on suddenly and are more severe

Flu symptoms generally include high fever (above 102°F), nausea, dry cough, chills, body aches, sweating, and loss of appetite. These symptoms are usually more intense than those associated with a common cold.

Key Indicators of Influenza

Recognizing the hallmark symptoms of influenza can help you seek appropriate care and treatment. Here are some key indicators that suggest you may have the flu rather than a cold:

• High fever (above 102°F)
• Severe body aches
• Intense fatigue
• Dry, persistent cough
• Sudden onset of symptoms

If you experience these symptoms, particularly if they come on rapidly, it’s more likely that you’re dealing with influenza rather than a common cold.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While most cases of colds and flu can be managed at home, certain situations warrant medical attention. Consider seeking medical care if:

• Your symptoms are severe or prolonged
• You have a pre-existing health condition that puts you at high risk of complications
• Your symptoms indicate a more serious infection
• You experience a fever that subsides and then returns, which could signal a secondary bacterial infection

Early intervention can prevent complications and ensure proper management of your illness.

Treatment Options for Colds and Flu

While there is no cure for the common cold or flu, various treatment options can help alleviate symptoms and support recovery:

Over-the-Counter Medications

OTC medications can provide relief for specific symptoms:

• Decongestants for nasal congestion
• Cough suppressants for persistent coughs
• Pain relievers for headaches and body aches
• Fever reducers for high temperatures

Antiviral Medications

In severe cases of flu, your doctor may prescribe antiviral medications to speed up recovery time. These drugs are most effective when started within the first 48 hours of symptom onset.

Home Remedies and Lifestyle Adjustments

Several home remedies and lifestyle changes can support your recovery:

• Get plenty of rest
• Stay hydrated with water and clear fluids
• Use a humidifier to ease congestion
• Gargle with salt water for sore throat relief
• Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption

Preventing the Spread of Colds and Flu

Preventing the transmission of cold and flu viruses is crucial for maintaining public health. Here are some effective strategies to minimize the spread of these respiratory infections:

Proper Hand Hygiene

Regular and thorough hand-washing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of colds and flu. Why is hand hygiene so important? Viruses can survive on surfaces for hours, and touching contaminated surfaces followed by touching your face can lead to infection. To maximize the effectiveness of hand-washing:

• Use soap and water, scrubbing for at least 20 seconds
• Pay attention to often-missed areas like fingertips and between fingers
• Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol when soap and water aren’t available

Respiratory Etiquette

Practicing good respiratory etiquette helps contain the spread of viruses through respiratory droplets:

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing
• Dispose of used tissues immediately
• If a tissue isn’t available, cough or sneeze into your elbow rather than your hands

Vaccination

Annual flu vaccinations are a crucial preventive measure, especially for high-risk groups. While they don’t guarantee complete protection, flu shots can significantly reduce the risk of infection and severity of symptoms if you do contract the virus.

Understanding Cold Sweats and Body Aches

Cold sweats and body aches are common symptoms associated with both colds and flu, but they can be particularly pronounced in cases of influenza. Let’s delve deeper into these symptoms and their implications.

Cold Sweats: Causes and Significance

Cold sweats, characterized by sudden sweating accompanied by a cold, clammy feeling, can be alarming. What causes cold sweats during illness? They’re often associated with the body’s “fight or flight” response and can indicate:

• The body’s effort to reduce fever
• A reaction to severe pain or discomfort
• An immune system response to infection

While cold sweats are common during flu, persistent or severe cold sweats may warrant medical attention, as they could indicate complications or other underlying conditions.

Body Aches: Why They Occur

Body aches are a hallmark symptom of many viral infections, including colds and flu. Why do we experience body aches during these illnesses? The primary reasons include:

• Inflammation caused by the immune response to the virus
• Release of chemicals called cytokines, which can cause pain
• Dehydration, which can exacerbate muscle soreness

While both colds and flu can cause body aches, they tend to be more severe and widespread in cases of influenza.

Navigating Cold and Flu Season: Tips for Staying Healthy

As cold and flu season approaches, taking proactive steps to protect your health becomes increasingly important. Here are some strategies to help you stay healthy and minimize your risk of infection:

Boost Your Immune System

A strong immune system is your best defense against colds and flu. How can you naturally boost your immunity?

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Get regular exercise to promote overall health and circulation
• Ensure adequate sleep, aiming for 7-9 hours per night
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques or mindfulness practices

Stay Hydrated

Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining health and fighting off infections. Why is hydration so important during cold and flu season?

• Helps thin mucus, making it easier to clear from airways
• Supports immune function
• Aids in regulating body temperature
• Helps flush toxins from the body

Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water daily, and increase your intake if you’re feeling under the weather.

Maintain Clean Environments

Regularly cleaning and disinfecting your surroundings can help reduce the risk of viral transmission. Pay special attention to high-touch surfaces such as:

• Doorknobs and light switches
• Keyboards and mobile devices
• Kitchen and bathroom counters
• Shared office equipment

Debunking Common Cold and Flu Myths

Numerous myths and misconceptions surround colds and flu, potentially leading to improper care or unnecessary worry. Let’s address some common myths and provide accurate information:

Myth: “Feed a Cold, Starve a Fever”

This old adage has persisted for generations, but is there any truth to it? In reality, proper nutrition is important whether you have a cold or a fever. Your body needs energy to fight off infections, so eating nutritious foods (if you have an appetite) and staying hydrated is beneficial for both conditions.

Myth: Antibiotics Can Treat Colds and Flu

Why don’t antibiotics work for colds and flu? These illnesses are caused by viruses, not bacteria. Antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections and won’t help with viral illnesses. In fact, using antibiotics unnecessarily can contribute to antibiotic resistance, a growing global health concern.

Myth: You Can Catch a Cold from Being Cold

While cold weather may coincide with an increase in colds, simply being cold doesn’t cause illness. Colds are caused by viruses, not temperature. The increase in colds during colder months is likely due to people spending more time indoors in close contact, facilitating the spread of viruses.

Special Considerations for High-Risk Groups

Certain populations are at higher risk for complications from colds and especially from flu. These groups should take extra precautions and seek medical attention promptly if they develop symptoms:

Elderly Individuals

Why are older adults more vulnerable to complications from colds and flu?

• Weakened immune systems due to aging
• Higher likelihood of chronic health conditions
• Decreased efficacy of vaccines in some older individuals

Seniors should prioritize annual flu vaccinations and practice rigorous preventive measures.

Young Children

Children, especially those under 5, are at higher risk for flu complications. Why is this age group particularly vulnerable?

• Immature immune systems
• Higher likelihood of exposure in school or daycare settings
• Difficulty in practicing good hygiene habits consistently

Parents should ensure children receive age-appropriate vaccinations and teach them proper hand-washing techniques.

Pregnant Women

Pregnancy alters the immune system, making expectant mothers more susceptible to severe flu symptoms. Additionally, flu during pregnancy can pose risks to the developing fetus. Pregnant women should:

• Get vaccinated against flu (the vaccine is safe during pregnancy)
• Practice diligent hygiene and avoid close contact with sick individuals
• Seek prompt medical attention if flu symptoms develop

Individuals with Chronic Health Conditions

People with certain chronic conditions are at higher risk for complications from both colds and flu. These conditions include:

• Asthma and other respiratory diseases
• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• Kidney or liver disorders
• Weakened immune systems due to disease or medication

These individuals should work closely with their healthcare providers to manage their conditions and take appropriate preventive measures during cold and flu season.

The Role of Rest in Recovery from Colds and Flu

While it’s tempting to push through illness and maintain normal activities, rest plays a crucial role in recovery from colds and flu. Why is rest so important when you’re sick?

Benefits of Rest During Illness

• Allows your body to direct energy towards fighting the infection
• Helps reduce the risk of spreading the virus to others
• Can prevent the illness from becoming more severe or prolonged
• Supports the immune system’s function

How Much Rest is Needed?

The amount of rest needed can vary depending on the severity of your symptoms and your overall health. Generally:

• Aim for at least 8-10 hours of sleep per night
• Take naps during the day if you feel tired
• Avoid strenuous activities until your symptoms improve

Listen to your body and rest as much as you need to support your recovery.

Balancing Rest and Activity

While rest is crucial, complete bed rest isn’t always necessary or beneficial. Light activity, when you feel up to it, can help:

• Improve circulation
• Boost mood and energy levels
• Prevent muscle weakness from prolonged inactivity

The key is to find a balance that allows for adequate rest while preventing the negative effects of prolonged immobility.

Understanding the Seasonal Nature of Colds and Flu

Cold and flu viruses circulate year-round, but their prevalence increases dramatically during certain seasons. Understanding this seasonality can help in prevention and preparation.

Why Do Colds and Flu Peak in Winter?

Several factors contribute to the winter peak of respiratory infections:

• People spend more time indoors in close proximity, facilitating virus spread
• Lower humidity levels may help viruses survive longer in the air
• Reduced sunlight exposure may lower vitamin D levels, potentially weakening immune function
• Cold temperatures may slightly suppress immune responses in the nasal passages

The Concept of Flu Season

In the Northern Hemisphere, flu season typically runs from October to May, with peak activity often occurring between December and February. However, the exact timing and severity of flu seasons can vary from year to year.

Year-Round Prevention

While cold and flu viruses are more prevalent in winter, it’s important to maintain good health practices year-round:

• Practice regular hand hygiene
• Stay up-to-date with vaccinations
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle to support your immune system
• Be mindful of virus transmission in crowded places, regardless of the season

By understanding the seasonal patterns of colds and flu and taking appropriate precautions, you can better protect yourself and others from these common yet potentially serious illnesses.

Cold Vs. Flu: How to Tell the Difference in Your Symptoms

You have a runny nose, a cough, a fever, and a pounding headache, but what’s making you feel so awful? Figuring out whether you’re dealing with the common cold or the flu is often hard to tell.

Finding the Cause Depends on the Type of Virus

Both a cold and the flu, or influenza, are respiratory infections, but they’re caused by different viruses. A cold can be caused by any one of more than 200 distinct viruses, while there are only a handful of viruses that cause the flu.

As a general rule, the flu is usually more intense and fierce than the common cold. In some situations, it can be important to know if you have the flu, since it is more likely to lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, bacterial infection, or hospitalization. “Watch out for a fever that goes away and then comes back. That could mean that a cold or flu has turned into a bacterial infection,” warns Charles Foster, MD, of the Cleveland Clinic’s Center for Pediatric Infectious Diseases in Ohio.

Key Symptoms of the Flu

Symptoms that indicate flu tend to be more severe than with a cold and include high fever (above 102 F), nausea, cough without phlegm, chills, body aches, sweating, and lack of appetite.

Difference Between the Onset of Cold vs. Flu Symptoms

In addition to examining your symptoms, watching how they develop can give you a clue as to which illness you have. Cold symptoms tend to develop gradually, while flu symptoms can come on suddenly, without warning.

Learn more about Cold and Flu Symptoms

Seeking Medical Care to Determine if You Have a Cold or the Flu

Your doctor can perform tests in the first few days after you develop symptoms to determine whether you have a cold or the flu. However, you usually don’t need to visit the doctor unless your symptoms are severe, you have a pre-existing health problem that puts you at high risk of a complication, or your symptoms indicate a more serious infection.

Whether you have a cold or the flu, expect your symptoms to stick around for about 10 days. There is no cure for a cold, but in some severe cases of the flu, your doctor may recommend an antiviral medication to speed up your recovery time. Antiviral drugs are considered a second line of defense after flu vaccinations.

Since both the common cold and the flu are caused by viruses, not bacteria, antibiotic medicines are not of any use in combating them.

Get plenty of rest, avoid smoking and alcohol, drink plenty of water and juice, and take over-the-counter medication to treat specific symptoms and help you feel better as your body fights off the infection.

Learn more about Cold and Flu Treatment

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Cold Sweats: Causes, Treatment, and More

Cold sweats can be caused by a variety of different conditions. They’re often associated with your body’s “fight or flight” response. This happens when your body prepares itself to either run away or to get hurt.

They’re also common to conditions that prevent oxygen or blood from circulating throughout your body.

Keep reading to learn more.

Shock

Shock happens when your body reacts to extreme environmental conditions or severe injury. When your body goes into shock, your organs don’t receive as much as oxygen or blood as they need to function. If your body stays in a state of shock for too long, your organs can be harmed. In some cases, shock can be fatal if untreated.

Other symptoms include:

• abnormally pale skin
• rapid breathing
• abnormally high pulse
• feeling sick or throwing up
• abnormally large (dilated) pupils
• feeling weak or exhausted
• feeling dizzy
• abnormal anxiety or feelings of stress

Infection or sepsis

Infections can be caused by bacteria or viruses attacking your body’s tissues. In many cases, infections cause your tissues to become inflamed as your immune system tries to fight off the infection.

Sepsis happens when your immune system responds to a serious bacterial or viral infection in your abdomen, lungs, urinary system, or other major bodily tissues. With sepsis, inflammation can happen across your entire body. This can cause your blood to clot or to spill out of your blood vessels. This makes it harder for your organs to get fresh blood and oxygen, which can cause cold sweats.

Sepsis can be life-threatening. Seek emergency medical help right away if you have cold sweats with any of the following symptoms:

• high fever
• coldness and shivering
• confusion or disorientation
• rapid breathing
• abnormally high pulse
• difficulty breathing
• loss of consciousness

Nausea or vertigo

Nausea is simply feeling like you’re sick and going to throw up, although you may not always throw up when you feel nauseous. Nausea can be caused by many things, such as by eating too much or from taking certain medications.

Vertigo is dizziness that results from feeling like the room around you is moving when it actually isn’t. It’s often caused by issues with your inner ear and its connections to the brain.

See your doctor if you notice any other common symptoms of vertigo, including:

• twitchy eye movement (nystagmus)
• blurry vision (diplopia)
• difficulty walking
• weakness or abnormal numbness
• ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• difficulty speaking or slurring your speech

Fainting

Fainting (syncope) happens when you don’t get enough oxygen to your brain. Cold sweats can occur right before or after you pass out.

Fainting because of brain oxygen loss can happen for a number of reasons, including:

• being dehydrated
• getting too hot or sweating too much due to exercise or external temperature
• blood not flowing out of your legs quickly enough (pooling)
• being overly exhausted
• having certain heart conditions that cause your heart to beat too fast or too slowly

See your doctor right away if you think a heart condition may be causing you to faint.

Intense pain from injury

Pain caused by an injury, such as from breaking a bone or getting hit in the head, can cause cold sweats, similar to the way shock can cause sweating as your organs don’t get enough oxygen.

Taking pain medication, such as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drug like ibuprofen (Advil), can help relieve intense pain and stop cold sweats. Talk to your doctor before taking NSAIDs to make sure they’re a safe option for you.

Stress or anxiety

Stress or anxiety caused by overwhelming responsibilities at home, at work, or at school can trigger cold sweats.

Other symptoms can include:

• unexplained pain
• vomiting
• tense muscles

These effects are a result of the stress that anxiety puts on the body, which can keep oxygen from getting to your brain or other organs.

Having an anxiety disorder can disrupt your life and cause long-term health effects. See your doctor if you believe you may have an anxiety disorder. They may refer you to a therapist or psychiatrist to assess the cause of your stress or anxiety.

Migraines

A migraine is a type of headache that can cause severe pain for an extended period of time. Cold sweats usually happen during a migraine as your body responds to the pain.

Migraines can be debilitating and interrupt your life. See your doctor if your migraines keep you from doing daily tasks or if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• having trouble speaking
• having blurry vision or loss of vision
• feeling numb or weak on one side of your body
• hearing sounds that aren’t real
• feeling extremely sensitive to sound or light
• feeling dizzy, confused, or disoriented

Hypoxia

Hypoxia means that not enough oxygen is getting to the organs in your body. This can be caused by not breathing in enough oxygen. This can happen when you breathe in smoke or go to high altitudes where the air supply is decreased.

When your brain doesn’t get enough oxygen, it’s called cerebral hypoxia. Because your brain is deprived of oxygen, your body responds in cold sweats and other mental symptoms, such as:

• having trouble walking or controlling other body movements
• having trouble paying attention
• losing your judgmental abilities
• having difficulty breathing

Severe hypoxia can cause you to lose consciousness or go into a coma. Seek emergency medical help right away if hypoxia has caused you to lose control over your body or feel like passing out.

Hypotension

Hypotension happens when your blood pressure drops to much lower levels than normal. Low blood pressure is normal when you sleep or are doing little activity, but hypotension can be serious when it causes the brain or your other organs not to get enough oxygen.

Other common symptoms of hypotension include:

• feeling dizzy or confused
• having blurry vision
• passing out without warning
• feeling exhausted
• feeling nauseous

Your body can go into shock if your blood pressure drops low enough. Seek emergency medical help right away if this happens.

Menopause

Menopause happens when your body’s balance of two hormones, estrogen and progesterone, changes dramatically and your menstrual cycle ends.

Along with sudden hot flashes, cold sweats are among the most noticeable physical symptoms of menopause.

Other common symptoms of menopause include:

• experiencing changes in your menstrual cycle
• having trouble controlling your urination
• having trouble sleeping
• experiencing changes in your moods or mental state
• gaining weight
• feeling less pleasure during sex due to vaginal dryness or hormone changes

Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis is another name for excessive sweating. Hyperhidrosis can happen when you sweat because of exercise or heat, but frequent cold sweats with hyperhidrosis can also happen without warning.

Hyperhidrosis isn’t usually a cause for concern, especially if it happens without any other symptoms. It can be passed down in families, so it may simply be caused by your genes and not an underlying health condition. If hyperhidrosis is disrupting your life, see your doctor.

Hypoglycemia

With hypoglycemia, your blood sugar drops below normal levels. Your body reacts to a lack of blood sugar similarly to a lack of oxygen.

If you have diabetes, seek emergency medical help right away to restore your blood’s glucose levels. Eating or drinking sugary foods and beverages, such as a meal replacement bar or fruit juice, can also help restore blood sugar in a short amount of time.

Cold sweats can be one of the first signs of a heart attack. Seek emergency medical help right away if you suddenly have a cold sweat along with any of the following symptoms:

• discomfort or pain in your chest that feels like pulling, squeezing, or bloating
• difficulty breathing
• discomfort or pain in your neck, jaw, stomach, or back
• dizziness or lightheadedness
• a feeling that you’re going to pass out

Treatment depends on what’s causing your cold sweats. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can keep you from getting dehydrated. Getting regular exercise and avoiding habits such as smoking or drinking excessive alcohol can prevent cold sweats.

In some cases where your oxygen supply is low, taking deep breaths can help restore your blood’s oxygen supply. Meditation and relaxation techniques can help calm anxiety or stress and help you get your breath back. You can meditate anywhere, and these positions can help guide practice at all levels.

Underlying conditions can be managed with medications, including:

• prescription antiperspirants
• nerve blockers that stop your nerves from telling your brain to induce sweating
• antidepressants
• Botox injections, which can also block nerves that tell your brain to induce sweating

If your body goes into shock, becomes infected, or gets seriously injured, emergency medical attention is necessary to prevent any long-term damage. You should also seek emergency medical attention if you think you’re experiencing a heart attack.

You should also see your doctor if you:

• have bluish discoloration of your nails or lips
• feel tightness in your throat
• feel significantly less alert than usual
• throw up blood or pass blood when you have a bowel movement

If your cold sweats are caused by an underlying condition, such as anxiety or menopause, your doctor can work with you to develop a symptom management plan. They’re your best resource for more information about what to expect and how to cope with any symptoms you’re experiencing.

Cold sweat – causes, diseases, diagnosis, prevention and treatment

Description

Cold sweat is sweat that is secreted from the sweat glands and cools the skin, causing a feeling of coldness. Sweat is usually warm, as it is produced to regulate body temperature, but sometimes cold sweat can occur due to various diseases or conditions.

Cold sweat can have different characteristics depending on its cause. For example, with a general cooling of the body, sweat can be cold and accompanied by trembling, and with severe emotional stress or a panic attack, sweat can be cold and clammy.

Cold sweat can be a symptom of various diseases or conditions such as cardiovascular disease, acute infections, allergic reactions, autoimmune diseases, endocrine disorders, and others. In this case, cold sweat may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as weakness, pale skin, loss of consciousness, chest pain, difficulty breathing, and others.

If you have cold sweats, see your doctor to assess the condition and determine the cause. In some cases, additional testing and treatment may be required.

Why cold sweat is dangerous

Cold sweat is not dangerous in itself, but is a symptom of various diseases and conditions that can be dangerous to health. Therefore, if you have a cold sweat, especially in combination with other symptoms, you need to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Some of the diseases and conditions that can cause cold sweats and be hazardous to health include:

• Acute coronary syndrome such as acute myocardial infarction
• Acute infection such as sepsis
• Allergic reaction such as anaphylaxis
• Shock due to blood loss, anaphylaxis, infection or other cause
• Endocrine disorders such as hypoglycemia or adrenal insufficiency
• Circulatory disorders such as acute cerebrovascular accident or thromboembolism
• Oncological diseases such as lung or bladder cancer

In addition, cold sweats may be accompanied by other symptoms that may indicate a serious condition, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, panic, and others. Therefore, it is important to seek medical attention if you have a cold sweat in combination with other symptoms.

Physiological causes of cold sweat

Cold sweat is a response to various physiological factors that affect the functioning of the body. Here are some physiological reasons that can cause cold sweat:

• Severe physical or emotional stress: during intense physical exercise or during periods of severe emotional stress, cold sweat may be released.
• Elevated ambient temperature: At high ambient temperatures or in the sauna, sweating may occur, which cools the skin.
• Acute food reaction: An acute allergic reaction to food may produce cold sweats accompanied by other symptoms such as itching, hives and swelling.
• Sudden changes in blood glucose levels: when blood glucose levels are severely low (hypoglycemia), sweating may occur, which is accompanied by a cold sweat.
• Taking certain medications: Some medications, such as analgesics and antidepressants, can cause sweating, including cold sweats.

Physiological cold sweats are usually not a health hazard and resolve quickly when the cause is removed. However, if you have cold sweats in combination with other symptoms such as weakness, chest pain, or difficulty breathing, you should see your doctor for an evaluation.

Pathological causes of cold sweat

Cold sweat can also be caused by various pathological conditions, such as diseases of the cardiovascular system, infections, allergies, certain endocrine disorders, and others. Some of the pathological causes of cold sweat include:

• Acute coronary syndrome such as acute myocardial infarction
• Shock due to various causes, including blood loss, trauma or anaphylaxis
• Acute cerebrovascular accident
• Acute infection such as sepsis
• Oncological diseases such as lung or bladder cancer
• Allergic reaction such as anaphylaxis
• Endocrine disorders such as hypoglycemia or adrenal insufficiency
• Certain autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus or scleroderma

If you have a cold sweat that lasts for a long time or is accompanied by other symptoms, you should see a doctor to diagnose and treat the underlying disease.

Accompanying symptoms

Cold sweat may be accompanied by various symptoms, depending on the underlying cause. Some of the more common symptoms that may accompany cold sweats include:

• Chest pain
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Severe weakness
• Dizziness or loss of consciousness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Increased heart rate or arrhythmia
• Cold extremities, redness or pallor of the skin
• High body temperature or fever
• Severe cough or nasal congestion
• Abdominal pain or diarrhea
• Panic attacks or anxiety

If you have cold sweats in combination with other symptoms, you should see a doctor to diagnose and treat the underlying condition. Some of the symptoms, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, or high body temperature, may indicate a serious condition, so in such cases, immediate medical attention is needed.

What are the scenarios

The scenarios for cold sweat depend on the cause that caused it and the presence of other symptoms. Some of the possible scenarios that can occur with cold sweats include:

• Improvement: If the cold sweat is caused by physiological factors, such as intense exercise or severe emotional stress, then the condition usually improves after the cause disappears.
• Deterioration: If the cold sweat is caused by a serious illness or condition, such as acute coronary syndrome or infection, the condition may worsen over time and require urgent medical attention.
• Development of other symptoms: In some cases, cold sweat may be accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, dizziness or loss of consciousness. In such cases, urgent medical attention may be required.
• Asymptomatic: If cold sweat is temporary and caused by physiological factors, it usually resolves without any other symptoms and does not pose a health risk.

If you have cold sweats, especially in combination with other symptoms, you should see a doctor to diagnose and treat the underlying condition. Seeing your doctor early can help prevent possible complications and improve your prognosis.

What diseases cause cold sweat

Cold sweat can be a symptom of various diseases, which include:

• Acute coronary syndrome such as acute myocardial infarction
• Shock due to various causes, including blood loss, trauma, or anaphylaxis
• Acute cerebrovascular accident
• Acute infection such as sepsis
• Oncological diseases such as lung or bladder cancer
• Allergic reaction such as anaphylaxis
• Endocrine disorders such as hypoglycemia or adrenal insufficiency
• Certain autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus or scleroderma

However, cold sweats can also be caused by milder causes such as physical and emotional stress, increased ambient temperature, or certain medications.

If you have cold sweats, you should see a doctor to diagnose and treat the underlying condition. Seeing your doctor early can help prevent possible complications and improve your prognosis.

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What examinations to undergo

If you have cold sweat, you need to see a doctor to diagnose and treat the underlying disease. Diagnosis may include the following examinations:

• Complete blood count: to assess the level of hemoglobin, leukocytes and other blood parameters.
• Biochemical blood test: to assess the level of glucose, electrolytes, urea and creatinine.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG): to evaluate the work of the heart and detect abnormal heart rhythms or myocardial ischemia.
• Chest x-ray: to detect diseases of the lungs and heart.
• Ultrasound of the heart: to assess the work of the heart and detect blood flow disorders.
• CT or MRI of the brain: to detect cerebrovascular disease or other disorders.
• Allergy tests: to detect allergic reactions to certain substances or foods.
• Additional examinations, including gastroscopy, colonoscopy, abdominal ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, and others, may be prescribed depending on the symptoms and the proposed diagnosis.

Examinations are ordered by a doctor and depend on the symptoms, the suspected diagnosis and the source of the cold sweat. It is important to see a doctor as soon as possible to start treatment and prevent possible complications.

How to remove it

The removal of cold sweat depends on the cause of its occurrence. If cold sweat is caused by physiological factors, such as intense physical exercise or severe emotional stress, then it can be removed in the following ways:

• Move to a cool room and remove excess clothing.
• Reduce physical or emotional stress.
• Drink cool liquids to reduce sweating.
• Shower or bath with cool water.

However, if the cold sweat is caused by a serious illness or condition, then a doctor should be consulted to diagnose and treat the underlying condition. In such cases, the removal of cold sweat may require special treatment, which may include medications, procedures, or surgery.

In any case, if you have a cold sweat, you need to see a doctor to diagnose and treat the underlying disease.

Which doctor to contact

If you have a cold sweat, it is recommended to contact your family doctor (general practitioner) in the first place. He will conduct an examination, collect an anamnesis, find out the presence of other symptoms and prescribe the necessary examinations to identify the cause of cold sweat. Depending on the results of the examinations, the doctor may prescribe treatment on his own or refer you for a consultation with a specialist, if necessary.

If the cold sweat is caused by a cardiovascular disease, a cardiologist may be required. If the cause is an allergic reaction, then you should consult an allergist. In some cases, such as cancer, it may be necessary to consult an oncologist.

If you have cold sweats in combination with other symptoms such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, dizziness or loss of consciousness, seek immediate medical attention. In such cases, you should call an ambulance or visit the nearest emergency room.

There are contraindications. Specialist consultation is required.

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Cold sweat – causes, diagnosis and treatment

Cold sweat is excessive sweating accompanied by cold skin, chills. The symptom occurs against the background of weakness, dizziness. There are various reasons for the development of cold sweat: disorders of the autonomic nervous system, blood loss and other emergency conditions, endocrine and cardiac diseases. To identify the cause of the disorder, ECG, echocardiography, ultrasound, x-ray imaging methods, and laboratory tests are used. To eliminate cold sweat, the underlying disease is treated.

Causes of cold sweat

Severe stress

Protective reaction of the body to any stressful situation is the release of adrenal medulla hormones (mainly adrenaline). This substance constricts the blood vessels of the skin and activates the sweat glands. A person feels profuse cold sweat, which appears in the form of drops, more often in the head area, and sometimes can drain in trickles. Such a manifestation is characteristic of the strongest emotional upheavals. Short-term sweating during stress is a variant of the norm, but when it is combined with dizziness, pre-syncope, medical assistance is needed.

Migraine

A person is thrown into a cold sweat at the height of a pain attack. In addition to severe headaches, the patient feels lightheadedness, weakness, and general sweating is observed. Hands and feet are cold, damp, sweat may run down the face and neck. This condition persists throughout the migraine attack and disappears on its own after the pain stops. Severe pain provokes excessive production of adrenaline, which causes sweating. Unpleasant symptoms are aggravated by exposure to light and sound stimuli.

Vegetovascular dystonia (VVD)

This is a common cause of cold sweat, especially in young, emotionally labile patients. A person with VVD reports that attacks of increased sweating have a different frequency – from several times a month to several times a day. Sweating is provoked by staying in a stuffy room, excitement. Patients note that the symptom is combined with severe weakness, dizziness, some people think that they are about to faint. Cold sweat is released all over the body, sweating of the palms, head, and armpits is most pronounced.

Diabetes mellitus

In patients with diabetes, cold sweating most often develops against the background of a decrease in blood glucose levels. Often a symptom is observed with long breaks between meals, erroneous administration of more insulin. At first there is a strong feeling of hunger, then on the face, the body sweats profusely, while the limbs are very pale and cold. Increased sweating is sometimes accompanied by motor excitement, a feeling of fear. The condition requires emergency care, as hypoglycemia can turn into a coma.

Cardiac pathology

Cold sticky sweat, which is caused by the ingestion of a large amount of stress hormones into the blood, appears on the skin during myocardial infarction. The symptom appears against the background of sharp pains in the chest with irradiation to the shoulder blade or left arm. In addition to pain, there is pronounced weakness, coldness of the extremities, cold perspiration appears on the face and body. The patient is very pale, verbal reactions may be inhibited. Sometimes the cause of cold sweat is the development of acute heart failure with a sharp drop in pressure and activation of the sympathetic nervous system.

Bleeding

Loss of a large amount of blood (more than 10% of BCC) is always accompanied by a violation of the general condition. With external bleeding from large vessels, cold sweat occurs immediately after an injury, its appearance is due to both neurohumoral disorders and a strong emotional shock from the type of blood. With massive internal bleeding, hemorrhages in the abdominal or pleural cavity, sticky sweat, a sharp cooling of the skin, and diffuse cyanosis are observed. Profuse blood loss can lead to loss of consciousness.

Infectious diseases

Cold sweat usually occurs at bedtime, or the patient wakes up at night with severe chills and notices increased sweating. The development of a symptom is associated with intoxication of the body with particles of bacterial or viral agents, an increase in body temperature. In some infections, complaints of prolonged perspiration (more than 1 month), cold extremities are typical. Abundant sweat can be combined with muscle trembling, weakness. Cold sweating is characteristic of diseases such as:

• Bacterial infections : pneumonia, tuberculosis, sepsis, etc.
• Viral processes : influenza, infectious mononucleosis, hemorrhagic fever (Crimea-Congo, Marburg, Ebola).
• Parasitic infestations : malaria, toxoplasmosis.
• HIV infection .

Withdrawal syndrome

Profuse cold sweats, which are predominantly observed at night, occur in people who are dependent on alcohol and drugs. Perspiration appears 2-3 days after the cessation of the use of these psychoactive substances. Sometimes the sweat is so profuse that the sheets and pillowcases get soaked through, and the person suffering from withdrawal symptoms has to change bedding in the middle of the night. Increased sweating is accompanied by aching and burning sensation throughout the body, weakness, severe headaches. Characterized by irritability, emotional instability.

Emergencies

There are many acute conditions in which cold sweats can occur. Perspiration always appears with severe damage to internal organs, in which the nervous regulation changes, there is a sharp release of biologically active compounds into the blood. At the same time, the skin turns pale sharply, the nasolabial triangle, nails, fingertips acquire a bluish tint. Sticky sweat appears on the entire surface of the body. Concomitant symptoms depend on the cause that provoked the appearance of cold sweat. With profuse sweating and cold extremities occur:

• Critical conditions : acute respiratory or hepatic failure, renal colic.
• Pathology of the gastrointestinal tract : peritonitis, strangulated hernia, thrombosis of mesenteric vessels.
• Diseases of the pelvic organs : ovarian apoplexy, tubal pregnancy, uterine perforation.
• Neurological disorders : concussion, subdural or epidural hematomas, stroke.

Rare causes

• Oncological diseases : lymphogranulomatosis, non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas, acute and chronic leukemias.
• Idiopathic hyperhidrosis .
• Endocrine pathology : hypothyroidism, chronic insufficiency of the adrenal cortex.
• Cardiac arrhythmias : Morgagni-Adams-Stokes syndrome, paroxysmal tachycardia, QT interval prolongation syndrome.

Diagnosis

A general practitioner or an internist is responsible for finding out the causes of excessive sweating. The main task of the examination is to detect the main cause – pathology, one of the symptoms of which is cold sweat. Diagnostic search involves laboratory and instrumental methods for assessing the general condition of the body and the functioning of individual organs. The following studies are considered the most valuable:

• Cardiac diagnostics . To exclude cardiac causes of the origin of cold sweat, an electrocardiogram is recorded in standard leads. The recording evaluates the voltage of the teeth, the size of the intervals between them. If pathological signs are detected, echocardiography is performed to clarify the diagnosis.
• Neurological examination . Standard research includes checking deep and superficial reflexes, skin dermographism. To exclude vegetovascular disorders, the Danini-Ashner phenomenon and an orthostatic test are used. In some situations, an electroencephalogram recording is recommended.
• Functional tests . Methods are used when idiopathic hyperhidrosis is presumably considered as the main cause that provoked cold sweat. The amount of perspiration is estimated using evapometry and gravimetry. To measure the area and intensity of hyperhidrosis, Minor’s test (iodine-starch test) is performed.
• Imaging methods . During the initial examination of patients with complaints of cold sweat, ultrasound of the abdominal cavity and small pelvis is informative. In the presence of concomitant symptoms, an X-ray examination of the chest and abdomen is indicated. Sometimes a CT scan or MRI is prescribed.
• Analyzes . A clinical blood test can detect signs of infectious diseases, which are often manifested by cold sweating. A coagulogram is performed in the presence of bleeding. In all cases of the disorder, a biochemical blood test with a proteinogram, measurement of fasting glucose is recommended.

The presence of a general infectious syndrome is an indication for bacteriological examination and serological tests to identify the type of pathogen (RIF, ELISA, PCR). With prolonged sweating, it is necessary to determine the concentration of insulin, thyroid hormones and adrenal cortex. To examine patients with cold sweat, other specialists (endocrinologist, phthisiatrician, oncologist) may be involved.

Treatment

Help before diagnosis

Cold sweat can be a sign of various diseases, so only a doctor can determine the exact causes of unpleasant symptoms. Before establishing the cause of sweating, it is recommended to take a hygienic shower regularly and change bed linen more often. With strong sweating, sedatives are used that normalize the functioning of the nervous system. If cold sweat arose against the background of severe weakness or dizziness, the patient should be seated, provided with air, and when fainting, give a sniff of ammonia.

First aid in critical conditions

Conservative therapy

Treatment depends on the underlying cause of excessive sweating. In critical conditions, resuscitation, oxygen support and the introduction of infusion glucose-salt solutions are required. In the case of a satisfactory condition, drug therapy is carried out. Cold sweat caused by autonomic dysfunction is treated with the use of physiotherapy and psychotherapy. The treatment regimen may include the following drug groups:

• Sedatives . Means are effective when cold sweat is associated with disorders of the nervous system. Both herbal and synthetic medicines are used. In difficult situations, resort to “daytime” tranquilizers.
• Analgesics . The occurrence of cold clammy sweat associated with pain requires the appointment of non-narcotic painkillers. With severe pain, traumatic shock, opioid analgesics are used.
• Antibacterials . Medicines help eliminate sweating associated with infectious diseases. For tuberculosis, specific long-term treatment regimens are used with combinations of several anti-tuberculosis drugs.
• Thrombolytics . The drugs are prescribed to patients with myocardial infarction, against which cold sweat occurs. They allow you to restore the blood supply to the heart muscle and significantly reduce the period of convalescence.

Surgical treatment

In case of cold sweat caused by severe organic lesions of the internal organs, surgery is indicated. Diseases accompanied by an “acute abdomen” require laparotomy, revision and sanitation of the abdominal cavity.