diaphoresis in CHF

[cannoli]

What is the exact cause of diaphoresis in CHF? (other than just a SNS response) (maybe that's all it is)

(I have already searched & searched and not found

a definitive answer)

TIA

[Daytonite, BSN, RN]

according to nurse's 5-minute clinical consult: signs & symptoms diaphoresis is an autonomic nervous system response to physical or psychogenic stress and heart failure is one of the causes of this stress in the human body.

[cannoli]

thanks, I think I was editing at the same time you were replying

[GilaRRT]

You must have a good understanding of receptor physiology to understand the core concepts of this question. Sweating occurs as a result of a sympathetic response. However, the exact answer is related to the receptors.

Sweat glands are special in that they are enervated by the sympathetic nervous system; however, these glands are activated by musacrinic receptors. While, muscarinic receptors are typically associated with a parasympathetic response, this is one situation where the rule of "there is always an exception" rings true.

[Whispera, MSN, RN]

...and....if you can't pump blood where it needs to go, and have to pump harder, and breathe harder, that's WORK...and might make you sweat a bit or more than a bit....

[GilaRRT]

...and....if you can't pump blood where it needs to go, and have to pump harder, and breathe harder, that's WORK...and might make you sweat a bit or more than a bit....

Anything that causes a sympathetic response can cause increased sweating.

[Whispera, MSN, RN]

I feel quite sympathetic about the whole thing....

[cannoli]

You guys (gals) are just too funny! thanks!

[Medic/Nurse, BSN, RN]

Wow - there folks.

I was being all profound in thinking it is really just related to that fear of "dying" by not being able to breathe. Oh wait - I was on the right track.

You guys rock!

Chris - Glad your back in the USA!

Stay SAFE!