Clammy Skin

Also known as: excessive sweating, sweaty skin

What is clammy skin?

Clammy skin simply refers to skin that is wet from sweating. This can happen to most people from time to time and usually isn’t a problem. However, clammy skin that occurs unexpectedly or frequently may be the sign of a medical problem.
 

What might cause clammy skin?

Clammy skin most commonly occurs when a person gets hot. Sweating is their natural way to regulate heat. If clammy skin is related to a medical condition, it may be one of the following:

How can it be treated?

Most cases of clammy skin do not require medical attention. If clammy skin is not accompanied by any other symptoms, it’s often just a matter of resting, moving someplace cool, drinking water or taking a shower to resolve the symptoms of clammy skin.

When should you seek medical attention?

If clammy skin is accompanied by rapid heartbeat, shallow breathing, weak pulse, altered thinking, vomiting, hives, skin rash, trouble breathing, swelling or loss of consciousness, seek immediate medical attention.

Reviewed by: Ana Margarita Duarte, MD

This page was last updated on: August 05, 2021 11:59 AM

Children's Dermatology

The Division of Dermatology at Nicklaus Children's Hospital focuses on the latest medications and technology available for the specialized treatment of all skin diseases and disorders affecting children of all ages.

Learn more