A common misconception is that sweating when sick can help fight off the disease or infection, according to SymptomFind. While this is not true, an increase in an individual's internal body temperature is what helps to fight off the viral and bacterial infection. An increase in body temperature may result in sweating.
As an individual's body fights off infection, he or she may start to feel chills, as their body temperature is adjusting and rising. Providing a blanket at this time can help improve comfort levels.
Each individual has approximately 2.6 million sweat glands that are distributed over the entire body in the dermis layer of the skin, as stated by Nature Education. Sweat is released to help cool down the body and contains an abundance of vitamins and minerals, such as sodium, potassium, chlorine and small amounts of fatty acids and proteins. There are two different types of sweat glands: ecrrine glands and aprocine glands.
While sweating may not necessarily help an individual fight off an infection or disease, it is helpful to make the individual more comfortable. This may include administering the proper medications for the disease, providing water to prevent dehydration and making sure that the individual gets proper rest.
