[38M] With excessive sweating and upper respiratory symptoms

Patient Description

A 38-year-old male presents with excessive sweating, nasal congestion, fatigue, and low energy levels over the past two days. The excessive sweating is severe enough to soak clothes and occurs even while sitting, having started suddenly after midnight. The patient also reports night sweats, fever, chills, and occasional cough. He has no history of palpitations or a racing heart. The patient recently quit smoking two weeks ago and has increased physical activity, including walking and running. He caught a cold recently but has no other long-term health conditions or past medical issues. He is currently taking Vitamin D3 (1000 IU) and Magnesium (250 mg) supplements daily and has no known drug allergies.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

  • Viral Infection (Common Cold or Flu): Your symptoms of nasal congestion, fatigue, low energy, fever, chills, and occasional cough are consistent with a viral infection such as the common cold or flu. These infections can also cause night sweats and excessive sweating as your body fights off the virus.

    • Treatment: Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to relieve symptoms (e.g., decongestants, fever reducers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen).
  • Hyperhidrosis: This is a condition characterized by excessive sweating that is not necessarily related to heat or exercise. It can be triggered by stress or anxiety, which you mentioned might be a factor.

    • Treatment: Antiperspirants, prescription medications, or other treatments as recommended by a healthcare provider.
  • Post-Exercise Sweating: Given your recent increase in physical activity, your body might still be adjusting, especially if you are not used to running or intense exercise. This can sometimes lead to excessive sweating even when at rest.

    • Treatment: Ensure you are staying hydrated and gradually increase the intensity of your workouts.
  • Smoking Cessation Effects: Quitting smoking can lead to various temporary changes in your body, including increased sweating and changes in energy levels as your body detoxifies and adjusts to the absence of nicotine.

    • Treatment: Continue to avoid smoking and consider support groups or counseling to manage withdrawal symptoms.

What you can do

  1. Rest and Hydrate: Make sure you are getting plenty of rest and staying well-hydrated. This will help your body recover from any viral infection and adjust to the increased physical activity.
  2. Over-the-Counter Medications: Use over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms like nasal congestion, fever, and chills. Decongestants and fever reducers can be helpful.
  3. Gradual Exercise: Gradually increase the intensity of your workouts to allow your body to adjust. Avoid overexerting yourself, especially if you are still recovering from a cold.
  4. Stress Management: Practice stress-relief techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help manage any anxiety that might be contributing to your symptoms.
  5. Track Symptoms: Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track your progress, and get insights. This can help you and your healthcare provider understand your condition better.

What you should look out for

  • Worsening Symptoms: If your symptoms worsen or do not improve after a few days, it is important to seek medical attention.
  • Severe Symptoms: If you experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or a high fever that does not respond to medication, seek immediate medical care.
  • Persistent Night Sweats: If night sweats continue for an extended period, it is important to consult a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying conditions.

Remember, while I can provide information and suggestions, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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4 mo ago


People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of a viral infection like the common cold or flu?

Common symptoms of a viral infection such as the common cold or flu include nasal congestion, fatigue, low energy, fever, chills, cough, and sometimes night sweats. These symptoms occur as the body fights off the virus.


How can quitting smoking affect my body and cause symptoms like excessive sweating?

Quitting smoking can lead to various temporary changes in the body, including increased sweating, changes in energy levels, and withdrawal symptoms as the body detoxifies and adjusts to the absence of nicotine.


What is hyperhidrosis and how is it treated?

Hyperhidrosis is a condition characterized by excessive sweating that is not necessarily related to heat or exercise. It can be treated with antiperspirants, prescription medications, or other treatments as recommended by a healthcare provider.


How can increased physical activity lead to excessive sweating even at rest?

Increased physical activity can lead to excessive sweating even at rest as the body adjusts to the new level of exertion. Staying hydrated and gradually increasing workout intensity can help manage this response.


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