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Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Profuse Sweating - Excessive Sweating

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

Excessive sweating is difficult to measure. It is usually noticed by a person or by the healthcare provider.

What is going on in the body?

The main purpose of sweating in the body is to get rid of excess body heat. Sweat on the skin evaporates, and this cools the body. Excessive sweating can sometimes be a sign of serious underlying conditions.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

Excessive sweating has many causes, including:

strenuous activity

hot weather or wearing too much clothing for the temperature

inherited factors, as some people sweat more than others

migraine headaches

almost any infection, such as pneumonia, tuberculosis or a serious heart infection called endocarditis

hyperthyroidism, or an increased level of thyroid hormone in the body

pain, stress, anxiety or fear

hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar

serious heart conditions, such as a heart attack or congestive heart failure

serious lung conditions, such as emphysema, pulmonary edema or a pulmonary embolus

medications, such as haloperidol, which is used to treat psychosis

illegal drugs, such as cocaine

tumors or cancer

autoimmune disorders, in which a person's immune system attacks the body. Some examples are rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus.

strokes, which can affect the temperature control center of the brain

Other causes are also possible. In some cases, no cause can be found.

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