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Warning-sign checks

Hyperhidrosis: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Seek emergency help if sudden heavy sweating occurs with chest pain or pressure, severe breathing difficulty, fainting, confusion, or grey or blue skin.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Prompt medical assessment is appropriate if sweating:

    • Began suddenly without a clear reason
    • Started after a new medicine or dose change
    • Occurs with repeated fever, unexplained weight loss, or ongoing diarrhoea
    • Is associated with shaking, confusion, or suspected low blood sugar
    • Causes signs of dehydration, such as dizziness or very dark urine

    Sweating in this setting may be a sign of another urgent medical problem rather than hyperhidrosis itself.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine appointment if sweating is new, persistent, affects your daily life, or regularly wakes you from sleep.

    It is also worth seeking advice if over-the-counter antiperspirants have not helped or are causing significant irritation.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Hyperhidrosis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.