Dizziness is one of the most common reasons that adults visit the doctor each year, according to MayoClinic.com. Although dizziness that occurs by itself does not usually indicate the presence of a serious medical condition, dizziness that occurs in conjunction with cold sweat may be a cause for concern.
Low Blood Pressure
Low blood pressure, medically referred to as hypotension, varies between individuals, but is generally defined as a blood pressure reading below 90/60 mm Hg, according to MayoClinic.com. Low blood pressure can be caused by heart problems, dehydration, severe blood loss, infection, a serious allergic reaction, problems with the endocrine system and malnutrition. When blood pressure is too low, oxygen is not delivered to the brain and other major organs in the body, which can cause a number of serious health conditions. Symptoms of low blood pressure include dizziness, lightheadedness, cold sweat, clammy skin, blurred vision, nausea, rapid breathing, fatigue and thirst. If symptoms are mild or do not occur often, treatment may not be necessary. Those who experience severe or recurrent symptoms may require medications that can increase blood pressure. A diet higher in salt and water may also be beneficial in raising blood pressure.
Toxic Shock Syndrome
Toxic shock syndrome is a serious bacterial infection that can be caused by the Staphylococcus or Streptococcus bacterium. Toxic shock syndrome is usually associated with tampon use, but Kids Health notes that it may also be caused by the use of contraceptive sponges and diaphragms. Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome vary based on which bacterium has caused the infection, but generally include dizziness, fever, drop in blood pressure, cold sweat, rash, confusion, weakness and breathing difficulties. Toxic shock syndrome is usually treated with a series of antibiotics. In severe cases, steroids may also be needed to reduce any inflammation or swelling. Those with toxic shock syndrome will also be monitored during the course of treatment until symptoms go away, according to Kids Health.
Heat Exhaustion
The hypothalamus is an area of the brain that has many functions including regulation of internal body temperature. Usually, when the body gets too hot, the hypothalamus will signal a sweat response to cool the body down and maintain the correct internal temperature. In some cases, such as prolonged exposure to heat or intense heat, the hypothalamus cannot adequately cool the body down and the body produces more heat than it can release. This is a condition called heat exhaustion. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include increased sweating, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, cold sweat, clammy skin, increased thirst, rapid heart rate, muscle cramps and fatigue. Heat exhaustion can usually be cured by moving into a cool place and increasing water intake. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that if heat exhaustion is severe, oral or intravenous saline solutions may be needed.
