Sweat as a Parkinson's Biomarker

[pdpatient]

in this episode of Vital Signs, Dr. Sanjay Gupta examines how sweat is being researched as a Biomarker for many ailments, including Parkinson's.

cnn.com/2025/01/21/health/v...

[Boscoejean]

fightparkinsons.org.au/park....

"Sweat

People with Parkinson’s can also experience changes to sweat / perspiration. Some people experience under secretion (hypohidrosis) resulting in very dry skin. Others experience over secretion (hyperhidrosis) when sweating may be excessive. Many people also experience drenching night sweats. Perspiration helps regulate the body’s temperature so any changes need to be monitored.

Often, people with Parkinson’s find sweat production to be reduced in the extremities of the body, such as hands and feet, and this can lead to overproduction in the rest of the body to compensate.

Changes in sweating may also be caused by Parkinson’s medications and experiencing episodes of perspiration may also be linked with medication cycles

Always refer to your GP or specialist to discuss medication changes.

Night sweats

For those who experience night sweats, light, cotton bedding is recommended. Satin sheets may be recommended to make turning in bed easier, but satin can increase sweat so should be avoided if night sweats occur. Always keep a glass of water beside the bed to replace lost fluids.

Changes to temperature regulation

Some people with Parkinson’s experience increased sensitivity to cold and may shiver and wear winter clothes even in the summer months. The exact cause of this is unclear. It is important to discuss heightened sensitivity to cold with your doctor so that any other causes can be ruled out.

[MarionP in reply to Boscoejean]

Useful advice, a number of your examples relate well to my experience.