Medical Term for Sweating
The medical term for sweating is diaphoresis. 1
Clinical Context and Usage
Diaphoresis is the formal medical terminology used throughout clinical guidelines and medical literature to describe the physiological process of sweating 1
This term appears consistently in diagnostic criteria and clinical assessments across multiple medical specialties, including cardiology, emergency medicine, and dermatology 1
Related Clinical Terminology
Excessive Sweating Conditions
Hyperhidrosis refers specifically to excessive sweating beyond what is required to maintain normal body temperature 2, 3, 4
Primary hyperhidrosis presents as bilaterally symmetric, focal excessive sweating of the axillae, palms, soles, or craniofacial region without underlying medical causes 2
Secondary hyperhidrosis may be focal or generalized and results from underlying medical conditions or medications 2
Reduced Sweating Conditions
Hypohidrosis describes reduced ability to produce sweat 4
Anhidrosis indicates absent sweating capacity, which may predispose patients to dangerous hyperthermia 4
Clinical Significance
Diaphoresis frequently accompanies serious medical conditions and serves as a key diagnostic feature in multiple emergency presentations 1
In acute coronary syndromes, diaphoresis occurs alongside chest discomfort as part of autonomic nervous system activation, with patients appearing pale, diaphoretic, and cool to touch 1
The presence of diaphoresis with other symptoms (such as confusion, tachycardia, or altered mental status) indicates potential medical emergencies requiring immediate evaluation 1