For most people, sweating is one of those bodily functions that are more annoying than anything else — but for some, heavy sweating is actually a sign of one of the most prevalent health conditions to plague the United States. For example, have you ever wondered if diabetes and sweating have a connection? We’re here to give you the scoop on whether or not you need to be worried about excessive sweating.
Is heavy sweating a sign of diabetes?
Excessive sweating can sometimes be more than an inconvenience; for some, it can actually be the first signal that something is wrong. And that something might be diabetes.
Diabetes can affect a variety of body functions and systems. One of the processes that this disease commonly impacts is your ability to thermoregulate or maintain a consistent internal temperature. As a result, excessive sweating is often one of the first signs that your blood sugar levels are outside the healthy range.
The link between sweat and diabetes
Here’s why excessive sweating is a sign of diabetes: it’s all got to do with how diabetes changes your body’s ability to keep your temperature in check. Generally, this is caused by low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, which is characterized as any blood sugar levels lower than 70 mg/dL. There are a variety of reasons that a person may experience hypoglycemia, such as:
- Over-injecting insulin
- Using certain medications
- A lack of carbohydrates
- Fasting or missing a meal
- Exercising too much
When hypoglycemia occurs, your body responds by trying to increase your blood sugar levels. It does this by releasing adrenaline to help encourage your liver to release glucose into the blood to raise your blood glucose levels. And, for better or for worse, one of the most common side effects of increased adrenaline levels is excessive sweating.
Additionally, excessive sweating or even a complete lack of sweat can also be a symptom of diabetic neuropathy.
Types of diabetic sweating
There are several different types of excessive sweating associated with diabetes.
Night sweats
Heavy sweating during the night can occur when you don’t consume enough carbohydrates during the day. This is because your body uses carbs to restore itself during the night — if you don’t have enough carbs available, your blood sugar levels will drop and trigger the release of adrenaline, which, in turn, will tell your body to start sweating.
To avoid night sweats, you may want to consume some healthy carbs before bed.
Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis is caused by low glucose levels that trigger the release of hormones. When these hormones flood the body, they interfere with your ability to control your internal temperature. The result? Excessive sweating.
Gustatory sweating
This type of sweating is caused by diabetes mellitus and is identified by heavy sweating on the face, head, and neck, especially after eating. This condition is more common in people who have been living with diabetes for a long time or those who have neuropathy.
Other symptoms of hypoglycemia
If sweating a lot is a sign of diabetes, it’s not the only one. If you’ve entered a hypoglycemic state, there are other symptoms that you may experience, including:
- Anxiety and nervousness
- Nausea and cramping
- Increased heart rate
- Mood changes
- Headaches
- Weakness and fatigue
- Confusion
- Vision problems
- Coordination problems
- Seizures
If you experience any of these symptoms or notice an increase in sweat, be sure to test your blood glucose levels. If your symptoms become more severe, reach out to your doctor right away.
Managing hyperhidrosis and excessive sweating
Fortunately, though sweating is a symptom of diabetes, it and other hypoglycemia symptoms are often short-lived and will usually resolve once your blood sugar levels have normalized. However, excessive sweating can be uncomfortable, embarrassing, and even dangerous, as sweat can provide an ideal environment for fungal infections to develop.
You can help manage excessive sweating by developing good hygiene habits and a healthy skincare routine. In addition, you should also regularly check your skin for signs of an infection or other damage. And because feet can be particularly sweaty, it’s very important to ensure they’re kept dry and clean.
Shop fancy diabetic socks online at Viasox
Here at Viasox, we understand how important great socks are, and that’s why we’ve made it our mission to create the best fancy diabetic socks in North America. Our super-stretchy non-binding diabetic socks and compression socks are specifically designed to help combat some of the most common foot problems people with diabetes face — including excessive sweating.
Made from high-quality, antimicrobial, and moisture-wicking materials, Viasox socks are perfect for keeping your feet looking and feeling wonderful. Shop our entire collection online to find fun patterns or classic styles to stock your wardrobe with. Need assistance? We’re more than happy to help! Reach out to a friendly member of our team today to learn more.
