Why does influenza A cause excessive sweating?
May 08, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
In general, influenza A (H1N1) refers to a respiratory infectious disease caused by infection with the influenza A virus. Excessive sweating after contracting influenza A may result from heat dissipation following fever, autonomic nervous system dysfunction, hypokalemia, pulmonary infection, myocarditis, or other related factors. Treatment may include general care and medication therapy under a physician's guidance. If symptoms occur, prompt medical attention is recommended.
Generally speaking, influenza A refers to influenza A. Influenza A is a respiratory infectious disease caused by the influenza A virus. Excessive sweating after contracting influenza A may be caused by heat dissipation following fever, autonomic nervous system dysfunction, hypokalemia, pulmonary infection, myocarditis, and other reasons. Treatment can be administered under the guidance of a physician, including general treatment and medication. If discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Heat dissipation after fever
Fever commonly accompanies infection with the influenza A virus. The body's temperature regulation center is stimulated, leading to elevated body temperature. The body maintains thermal balance by perspiring heavily. It is important to keep indoor air circulating, reduce clothing coverage appropriately to facilitate heat dissipation, and replenish fluids timely to prevent dehydration.
2. Autonomic nervous system dysfunction
The virus may increase the excitability of the sympathetic nervous system, leading to increased sweat gland secretion and thus excessive sweating. Daily relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation can help relieve stress and avoid excessive tension and anxiety.
3. Hypokalemia
Following infection with the influenza A virus, patients may develop electrolyte imbalance, leading to hypokalemia due to excessive perspiration and reduced food intake. Hypokalemia increases neuromuscular excitability, which can cause excessive sweating. Patients may also experience muscle weakness and arrhythmia. It is recommended that patients take medications such as potassium citrate granules, calcium gluconate oral solution, and potassium magnesium aspartate tablets under the guidance of a physician.
4. Pulmonary infection
The influenza A virus can cause pulmonary infection, impairing lung function and subsequently affecting the body's gas exchange and circulation. When the body is oxygen-deprived, it stimulates sympathetic nerve excitation, resulting in increased perspiration. Patients may also experience symptoms such as coughing, sputum production, and difficulty breathing. Patients can take medications such as azithromycin tablets, moxifloxacin tablets, and penicillin G sodium for injection under medical guidance to alleviate symptoms.
5. Myocarditis
The influenza A virus may invade the myocardium and cause myocarditis. Myocarditis impairs cardiac function, thereby affecting the body's circulation and metabolism. When cardiac pumping function declines, the body regulates fluid balance through perspiration to maintain normal physiological functions. Symptoms such as palpitations, chest tightness, and shortness of breath may also occur. Patients may take medications such as coenzyme Q10 capsules, vitamin C tablets, and prednisone tablets according to medical advice.
In daily life, it is recommended to maintain good personal hygiene habits, wash hands frequently, and avoid contact with infection sources. Additionally, individuals should engage in regular exercise to enhance immunity and strengthen the body's resistance.
