Numerous conditions may cause sudden, severe perspiration. According to the MedlinePlus website, perspiring or sweating -- the release of a salty liquid from the body's sweat glands -- helps cool the body and is an essential body function. In some individuals, however, sudden and severe sweating may indicate a serious underlying health condition or disorder. A person who perspires for no apparent reason should consider visiting her physician for an evaluation.
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is a thyroid condition that can cause sudden, severe perspiration. The thyroid gland is a 2-inch long gland that is shaped like a butterfly and sits within the front of the neck. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, or NIDDK, hyperthyroidism -- also known as thyrotoxicosis -- is a disorder in which the thyroid gland produces an excessive amount of thyroid hormone. The NIDDK states that approximately 1 percent of Americans have hyperthyroidism. Women are more commonly affected by this condition than men. Common signs and symptoms associated with hyperthyroidism include sudden and severe sweating, unexplained weight loss, elevated heart rate, increased appetite, nervousness, anxiety and irritability, increased heat sensitivity, difficulty sleeping, fatigue and muscle weakness. According to the NIDDK, Graves' disease is one of the most common causes of hyperthyroidism.
Panic Attack
A panic attack is a common cause of sudden, severe perspiration. MayoClinic.com states that a panic attack is a sudden bout of intense fear that manifests for no apparent reason. Panic attacks often cause extreme physical reactions. The person feels as though he is losing control, suffering a heart attack or even dying. According to MayoClinic.com, a person may suffer only one or two panic attacks during his life, but some people experience repeated episodes associated with a chronic condition known as panic disorder. Common signs and symptoms associated with a panic attack include excessive sweating, the feeling of impending doom, elevated heart rate, trembling, shortness of breath, nausea, abdominal cramping, chest pain and dizziness. MayoClinic.com states that panic attacks may last up to 30 minutes.
Heart Attack
A heart attack, also known as a myocardial infarction, is a potentially life-threatening cause of sudden, severe perspiration. According to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, or NHLBI, heart attack is the No. 1 killer of men and women in the United States. A heart attack occurs when blood flow to a portion of the heart is obstructed or blocked. Without oxygen and nutrients, part of the heart muscle dies. The most common cause of a heart attack is coronary artery disease, a condition in which plaque accumulates on the inner walls of the blood vessels that deliver blood to the heart. Common signs and symptoms associated with a heart attack include sudden, severe sweating; chest pain; pain that radiates to the jaw, teeth, shoulder, arm and back; shortness of breath; fainting; and nausea and vomiting. The NHLBI states that 1.1 million Americans suffer a heart attack every year.
