What is the Medical Term for Sweating?

The medical term for sweating is perspiration, but several other terms describe different aspects of sweating:

• Diaphoresis: This term refers to excessive sweating, often due to an underlying health condition or medication. It's frequently used to describe unusually heavy perspiration. [Source: Cleveland Clinic, MSDS HyperGlossary]

• Hidrosis: This broader term encompasses "sweating" or sometimes "excessive sweating." [Source: Dictionary.com]

• Hyperhidrosis: This is the medical term for excessive sweating that's not necessarily related to heat or exercise. It can affect the entire body or specific areas. [Source: Mayo Clinic, Yale Medicine, Children's National]

• Palmar Hyperhidrosis: This specifically refers to excessive sweating of the palms. [Source: Children's National]

Other Relevant Conditions

While not strictly synonyms for "sweating," these conditions involve sweat glands and are worth noting:

• Hematohidrosis: This extremely rare condition involves sweating blood, often associated with extreme stress. [Source: WebMD, NCBI PMC]

Types of Sweating and Their Medical Significance

Sweating itself is a normal bodily function, regulating body temperature. However, excessive or unusual sweating can signal underlying health issues. Therefore, understanding the specific terms helps in diagnosing and treating related medical conditions.