A.D.A.M. Medical Encyclopedia
Skin - clammy
Definition
Clammy skin is cool, moist, and usually pale.
Alternative Names
Sweat - cold; Clammy skin; Cold sweatConsiderations
Clammy skin may be an emergency. Call your doctor immediately.
Causes
- Shock
- Severe pain
- Heart attack
- Anxiety attack
- Heat exhaustion
Home Care
For shock, the patient should lie down on the back with legs elevated about 12 inches. Either call for emergency help or take the victim to a hospital. For heat exhaustion, have the person drink plenty of fluids and move to a cool, shaded environment.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
People with any of the following symptoms should immediately call their doctor or seek emergency help.- Shortness of breath
- Chest discomfort
- Signs of shock (such as confusion, diminished consciousness, or weak pulse)
If you are unable to reach your doctor, call for emergency help or take the victim to a hospital.
Always contact your doctor if the symptoms do not go away quickly.
The doctor will perform a physical exam and ask questions about the person's medical history.
Questions documenting clammy skin in detail may include:
- Time pattern
- How quickly did this develop?
- Did it develop suddenly?
- Has it ever happened before?
- Medical history
- Has there been an injury?
- Is the person ill?
- Are they in pain?
- Do they seem anxious or stressed?
- Has there been a recent exposure to high temperatures?
- What other symptoms are also present?
Review Date: 3/21/2006
Reviewed By: Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-RooseveltHospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed HealthcareNetwork.
Reviewed By: Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-RooseveltHospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed HealthcareNetwork.
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