Sweating after eating or drinking may affect many of us; however in some cases it can be indicative of a serious underlying metabolic disorder. The severity of sweating may differ in different individuals which may range from nominal to profuse sweating on either sides of the face, chest and neck.
While the treatment of the condition depends upon the cause, it is important to consult your physician, if the condition is not manageable by simple home remedies or is associated with other systemic symptoms.
Sweating is a natural phenomenon and sweating usually happens in response to body’s attempt to cool down. The skin comprises of sweat glands, which release sweat. Sweat uses body heat to evaporate and thereby aids in cooling down the body.
Profuse sweating can be observed especially in hot summer weathers, when the body needs to naturally control its temperature. Sweating after eating and drinking is also a common phenomenon. In most cases sweating affects the entire body with varying degree of severity.
Causes Of Sweating After Eating Or Drinking?
There are a host of factors that can lead to sweating after eating. Some of the more commonly known causes include,
- Consumption of spicy and salty foods like pickles or vinegar can lead to sweating after eating.Consumption of alcohol can also trigger sweating after eating.
- Excessive sweating after eating is linked with poorly controlled blood sugar levels, especially in diabetic individuals. As per a study published in Diabetic Medicine, gustatory sweating is linked with kidney damage or nephropathy in about 69 % of diabetics and with nerve damage or neuropathy in about 36% of diabetics.
- Sweating after eating or drinking can also be linked to hormonal changes in the body as experienced during menopause or andropause. Heat flashes and night sweat are common.
- Excessive sweating can also be linked with autoimmune disorders like Multiple sclerosis which tends to hamper the nerve system and result in excessive sweating.
When To Seek Medical Help For Excessive Sweating?
It is important to be able to identify the true cause of sweating and seek medical treatment especially if the condition is linked with a systemic disorder. Here are some basic tips on identifying such medical condition,
- If the sweating is too profuse especially after eating or drinking any kind of food, it can be indicative of poor blood sugar level control. This form of sweating usually affects the head, neck and upper part of the body.
- Profuse sweating in a cold and pleasant environment can be indicative of an autonomic nervous system dysfunction and you may need to consult your physician immediately.
- Excessive and profuse sweating throughout the year with low or no urine output is indicative of a renal dysfunction. It is important to consultant your physician to check for your kidney functions.
Fortunately, the medications can help in controlling blood sugar levels and also prevent the complications that are associated with diabetes like renal and nerve damage. Early diagnosis and treatment plays a very important role in the management of severe complications of diabetes.