Sweating is a normal response by the body to cool itself down and maintain a normal temperature. Sweating occurs naturally as a response to increased heat, exercise or stressful situations. When excessive sweating occurs without a trigger, it can signal the presence of underlying health problems. Excessive sweating due to a separate condition is referred to as secondary hyperhidrosis, according to Medline Plus.
Acromegaly
The pituitary gland is a small gland in the brain that produces a number of hormones, including one called growth hormone. Acromegaly is a hormonal disorder that is characterized by the presence of an excess amount of growth hormone in the body. The excess growth hormone is due to overproduction that is caused by a benign tumor, called an adenoma, located on the pituitary gland. Symptoms of acromegaly include excessive sweating, which causes skin odor, joint aches, oily skin, fatigue, headaches, impaired vision and swelling of the hands and feet. Treatment for acromegaly includes surgical removal of the tumor combined with radiation therapy of the pituitary gland, according to the National Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Information Service. If left untreated, acromegaly can cause a number of complications, including high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and arthritis. The condition may also result in death.
Hyperthyroidism
The thyroid gland is a gland in the front of the neck that is part of the endocrine system. It is responsible for producing hormones that regulate the body's use of energy, including thyroid hormone. Hyperthyroidism is a condition that is characterized by an overproduction of the thyroid hormone. Hyperthyroidism is usually caused by underlying conditions, such as Graves' disease, inflammation of the thyroid, benign growths on the thyroid glands and an overconsumption of iodine. The most common symptoms of hyperthyroidism include excessive sweating, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, increased appetite, restlessness and weight loss. Other possible symptoms include hand tremor, diarrhea, hair loss, high blood pressure, weakness, irregular heartbeat and difficulty sleeping. Most cases of hyperthyroidism can be treated with anti-thyroid medications and radioactive iodine, which stops the thyroid gland from producing too much thyroid hormone, according to Medline Plus. In severe cases, removal of the thyroid may be necessary. In these cases, lifelong thyroid hormone replacement therapy is required.
Pheochromocytoma
The adrenal glands produce hormones that target almost every cell in the body. They are located above each kidney. A pheochromocytoma is a tumor that develops in the core of one of the adrenal glands. This tumor causes the adrenal gland to produce an excess amount of hormones, which can dangerously increase blood pressure and heart rate. Symptoms of a pheochromocytoma include excessive sweating, high blood pressure, rapid heart rate and heartbeat, abdominal pain, severe headaches, anxiety, pale skin and weight loss, according to the Mayo Clinic. The most effective treatment for a pheochromocytoma is surgical removal of the tumor. Blood pressure medications may also be used.
