Skin - clammy
Alternative Names
Sweat - cold; Clammy skin; Cold sweatHome 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 person 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 seek emergency help.- Chest discomfort
- Shortness of breath
- Signs of shock (such as confusion, lower level of consciousness, or weak pulse)
If you are unable to reach your doctor, call for emergency help or take the person to a hospital.
Always contact your doctor or go to the emergency department 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?
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