Guide To The Causes And Complications Of Anhidrosis

Anhidrosis is a condition in which the sweat glands do not function properly. Even in extreme heat, patients with anhidrosis are often unable to perspire at all, and this prevents the body from cooling itself effectively. While the condition can affect the entire body, some individuals might only experience symptoms in a few areas. Symptoms of anhidrosis generally include the partial or complete absence of sweat, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, and flushing. Patients may feel very hot, and muscle cramps are common.

To diagnose this condition, doctors normally perform a sweat test. After being coated in a powder that changes color in response to the presence of sweat, the patient sits in a room warmed to a temperature that should produce perspiration. Photos are taken during the test to check for any color changes in the powder that indicate sweating. In certain cases, it may be necessary for the patient to have a biopsy of the skin or sweat glands. Treatment involves trying to determine the underlying cause and making lifestyle adjustments that could reverse or manage it. For example, patients who experience anhidrosis due to a particular medication may be switched to a different one, and individuals who develop the condition as a result of clogged sweat glands might be advised on exfoliation and other appropriate modifications to their skincare routine.

Some of the most common causes and complications associated with anhidrosis are discussed below.

Connective Tissue Diseases

Connective tissue diseases are one of the major potential causes of anhidrosis. These diseases result in inflammation to the collagen and elastin, two proteins that help tissues connect with body structures. Connective tissue diseases can damage the lungs, skin, nerves, gastrointestinal system, and other body areas. Rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, granulomatosis with polyangiitis, and Sjogren's syndrome are a few of the connective tissue diseases currently recognized, and patients with these conditions may exhibit a range of symptoms, including dry mouth, dry eyes, reduced or absent sweating, fatigue, and shortness of breath. To diagnose these types of diseases, doctors perform a physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies. Patients who receive a positive diagnosis will be referred to a specialist who treats their specific type of connective tissue disease. Treatment for connective tissue conditions usually includes immunosuppressants, and some patients may benefit from physical therapy and lifestyle modifications.

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Damage To The Skin

Some patients with damage to the skin could develop anhidrosis. For example, individuals who have burns or scars may notice these areas do not produce sweat, and anhidrosis is also common in patients who have had radiation therapy. Some surgical procedures carry the risk of damaging the sweat glands, and this is known to trigger anhidrosis. Diseases that clog the pores, including psoriasis, are recognized causes of the condition too. To minimize the risk of anhidrosis, patients having radiation therapy should ask their healthcare team about possible precautions to minimize skin damage. Individuals with conditions that affect the pores should also speak with their doctors about steps that might help reduce clogging. Patients with a burn may wish to go to an urgent care center so the burn can be properly evaluated and treated. Anyone who has any type of damage to the skin may want to consider visiting a dermatologist to investigate the latest treatment options as well.

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Congenital Conditions

Several congenital conditions can cause anhidrosis. For example, a type of congenital dysplasia known as hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia impairs the function of sweat glands, and patients with this condition typically have anhidrosis, and they often also have dry skin, hypopigmented hair, and the partial or total absence of teeth. Some patients also have trouble regulating body temperature and become easily overheated, and seizures have been reported as well. The condition is more common in males than in females, and symptoms normally begin during late infancy. Although there is no cure for the condition, patients are provided with supportive care, medications to control seizures (if necessary), and treatment to regulate body temperature. Anhidrosis also occurs with inherited conditions that affect metabolism, including Fabry's disease. Patients with this condition typically have pain in the hands and feet, digestive issues, and tinnitus, and the disease may lead to heart, kidney, and nervous system complications. Enzyme replacement therapy is the major treatment for this condition.

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Nerve Damage

Nerve damage associated with conditions such as diabetes and Guillain-Barre syndrome could result in anhidrosis. Patients with nerve damage, also known as neuropathy, will usually experience numbness or tingling, and they might notice muscle weakness and increased sensitivity to touch. Neuropathy can lead to functional impairments with various organs and glands, and individuals could have difficulties with urination and sexual function. As part of an evaluation for neuropathy, a doctor will test the patient's sensation, reflexes, and motor function. Nerve conduction studies may be necessary, and blood tests might be recommended to check for diabetes. Anticonvulsants are commonly prescribed to reduce nerve pain, and patients might be offered nerve blocks too. Physical therapy and acupuncture are often beneficial for many patients with this condition.

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Heat Cramps, Exhaustion, And Stroke

Heat cramps, exhaustion, and stroke are complications of anhidrosis that can be very serious, particularly since the lack of sweating not only makes them more likely, but also harder to detect. These complications are most likely to occur while patients are outdoors in hot weather. Patients who have muscle pain or muscle spasms could be experiencing heat cramps, and individuals in the early stages of heat exhaustion often notice a fast pulse, weakness, and nausea. Patients with any of these symptoms should go to a cool place, ideally an indoor location with air conditioning. Clothing can be loosened, and applying cool cloths to the body may help. If symptoms do not improve within an hour, the patient should go to the emergency room. Heat stroke is the most serious type of heat-related condition, and it can be life-threatening. Individuals who have heat stroke will have a temperature of at least 103 degrees Fahrenheit, and their skin could be very dry, red, or hot. Heatstroke needs immediate medical care, and emergency services should be called.