Hello!
I am only a Paramedic who sees quad patients at their worst...The two causes I know of that cause sweating as you describe are a chronic urinary tract infection, and the body's inability to regulate the involuntary part of the nervous system...This happens when the body "sensors"(the signals that trigger sweating) don't shut off...Actually, one other cause I know is the body becoming stressed from increased respiratory effort during sleep because the patient doesn't breathe as deeply or the tracheostomy port becomes plugged with mucous...If this were the cause, simple suctioning would solve the problem...I hope this helps..Good luck...
Surely someone can help?? In all the USA some where some how a quadraplegic has had a serious sweating problem. The bedclothes must be changed 2 times a night. All the test and more Dr. Kevin spoke about were done. Because we have a 2000 word limit could not go into all the test & results. I e-mailed Dr. Kevin all the info but have not heard anything after his comments yesterday. H E L P !
Yes your info was sort of helpful, except most od what you suggested we did as can be seen in a direct e-mail yesterday to you. The test and evaluations were stated. Thank you for answering, BUT if you would please, read my e-maik to you and make aditional comments from it. WE ARE HOPELESLY LOST AS TO WHAT TO DO. Dr., we need help - perhaps you could suggest another Dr.that might have had experence with quadaplegic profuse sweating. Thanks so much.....***@****
Difficult to say without evaluation.
Thyroid conditions should be ruled out, and can be evaluated with a blood test. Also, hormonal fluctuations can lead to sweating and tests for testosterone levels can be considered.
Infectious causes can also lead to increased sweating, and tests to exclude HIV or TB can be considered.
Imaging the chest and abdomen can be done as well to rule out an abscess or lymphoma. Both would be uncommon, but possible, causes of the increased sweating.
These options can be discussed with your personal physician.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patients education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com