Sahabat Pramita is likely familiar with the belief that sweaty palms indicate a weak heart. However, from a medical standpoint, this claim is a myth that needs clarification.

Excessively sweaty palms are known as palmar hyperhidrosis, a condition marked by overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system, which is part of the autonomic nervous system—responsible for regulating automatic bodily functions such as heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, and sweat production.

What Is Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction?
Autonomic dysfunction is a condition where the autonomic nervous system becomes imbalanced. This can cause symptoms such as excessive sweating, irregular heartbeat, dizziness upon standing, and digestive disturbances. In palmar hyperhidrosis, sweat production increases without any physical triggers such as heat or exertion.

Does Sweating Indicate a Weak Heart?
Not necessarily. Sweaty palms are not a direct indicator of heart function. However, in certain conditions, cold sweating can be a sign of systemic illnesses like heart failure, diabetes, thyroid disorders, infections, or severe stress.

Why Detect Systemic Illnesses Early?
Hyperhidrosis may be a symptom of systemic diseases that affect multiple organ systems, such as:

• Heart failure: The heart can't pump blood efficiently, triggering cold sweat as a stress response.
• Hyperthyroidism: Excess thyroid hormones accelerate metabolism and sweat production.
• Systemic infections: The body reacts with fever and sweating.
• Diabetes: Acute hypoglycemia may cause excessive sweating and weakness.

Recommended Laboratory Tests
To evaluate potential systemic causes, physicians usually recommend the following:

• Complete blood count (CBC): To assess infection or anemia.
• Thyroid function tests (TSH, T3, T4): For thyroid disorders.
• Fasting blood glucose & HbA1c: Diabetes screening.
• Cardiac tests (ECG, echocardiogram): To assess heart health.
• Liver & kidney function tests: Ensure vital organs are working well.
• Electrolyte panel (sodium, potassium): Important for nervous system stability.
   

Conclusion
So, Sahabat Pramita, sweaty palms do not necessarily mean a weak heart. They are more often caused by autonomic nervous dysfunction or systemic conditions. Early detection through lab testing helps identify the exact cause and determine the right treatment.