Night sweats refer to excessive sweating during sleep. They involve sudden, heavy sweating that soaks your nightclothes or bedding even when the room temperature isn't hot.
What causes night sweats?
Menopause is a common cause in middle-aged women as declining estrogen levels can disrupt temperature regulation. Hot flashes and night sweats are classic menopausal symptoms.
Infections like tuberculosis, endocarditis, osteomyelitis, and HIV/AIDS can all trigger severe night sweats. Tuberculosis bacteria attacking the lungs is a prime example.
Cancers like leukemia and lymphoma can also cause severe night sweats. The cancer cells trigger immune responses and fever that then lead to sweating.
Medications like antidepressants, pain relievers, and hormone therapies may list excessive sweating and night sweats as side effects.
Hypoglycemia or low blood sugar levels can also cause sweating during sleep.
Hormone disorders like pheochromocytoma and carcinoid syndrome disrupt hormone regulation, potentially leading to night sweats.
Idiopathic hyperhidrosis refers to unexplained excessive sweating without a clear trigger.
When should you see a doctor about night sweats?
See your doctor if you experience repeated heavy night sweats that:
Soak your bedclothes or nightclothes
Disrupt your sleep
Occur with unexplained weight loss, fever, or other worrying symptoms
Getting evaluated for possible causes like infection or cancers is crucial. You want prompt treatment for serious underlying diseases.
How are night sweats treated?
Menopausal sweating may be managed through hormone therapy, antidepressants, sage supplements, or acupuncture.
Infections require promptly starting antibiotic or antiviral treatment.
Treating an underlying cancer like lymphoma relies on chemotherapy, radiation, monoclonal antibodies, or stem cell transplants.
Adjusting or changing medications may ease drug-induced night sweats.
Idiopathic forms have no cure, but some relief comes through good sleep habits, avoiding triggers like spicy foods, keeping the room cooler, and using moisture-wicking sheets.
The right solutions depend on pinpointing the exact cause behind someone's night sweats through proper medical evaluation.
In summary, night sweats involve sudden heavy sweating during sleep that soaks sleepwear and bedding. Many conditions can trigger night sweats from menopause and infections to cancers and medication side effects. Seeking prompt medical attention for frequent or severe sweating episodes is essential to diagnose and properly treat any serious underlying cause.