What causes night sweats around the neck and chest. How can you distinguish between harmless and concerning night sweats. When should you consult a healthcare professional about excessive nighttime sweating.

Understanding Night Sweats: More Than Just Feeling Hot

Night sweats, particularly around the neck and chest, can be a perplexing and sometimes distressing experience. While occasional nighttime perspiration is normal, persistent and excessive sweating during sleep may indicate an underlying health issue. This article delves into the various causes of night sweats, helping you distinguish between benign occurrences and those that warrant medical attention.

Environmental Factors: Is Your Bedroom Setting You Up for Night Sweats?

Often, the simplest explanation for night sweats lies in your immediate surroundings. Your sleeping environment plays a crucial role in regulating your body temperature during the night. Consider the following factors:

• Room temperature: Is your bedroom too warm?
• Bedding: Are you using heavy blankets or non-breathable materials?
• Pajamas: Do your sleepwear trap heat rather than wick moisture?
• Mattress: Does your mattress retain heat instead of promoting airflow?

By addressing these environmental factors, you may be able to significantly reduce or eliminate night sweats. Experiment with cooling bedding materials, moisture-wicking pajamas, and maintaining a cooler room temperature to see if your symptoms improve.

Lifestyle Choices: How Your Evening Routine Impacts Nighttime Sweating

Your activities and choices in the hours leading up to bedtime can have a profound impact on your tendency to sweat during the night. Consider these potential triggers:

• Alcohol consumption: Do you drink alcohol close to bedtime?
• Spicy foods: Have you eaten spicy meals in the evening?
• Late-night exercise: Are you working out too close to your sleep schedule?

Modifying these behaviors may help alleviate night sweats. Try avoiding alcohol and spicy foods for several hours before bed, and consider shifting your exercise routine to earlier in the day. These simple changes could lead to more comfortable and sweat-free nights.

Stress and Anxiety: The Mind-Body Connection in Nighttime Sweating

Mental health plays a significant role in our physical well-being, including how we sleep and sweat. Stress and anxiety can manifest in various physical symptoms, with increased sweating being a common one. If your night sweats are accompanied by the following, stress or anxiety might be the culprit:

• Persistent feelings of worry, dread, or fear
• Difficulty concentrating on anything other than your concerns
• Sleep disturbances or nightmares
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Unexplained aches, pains, or muscle tension
• Irritability or mood swings
• General fatigue or weakness

Addressing the underlying causes of stress and anxiety, often with the help of a mental health professional, can lead to improvements in both your mental state and physical symptoms, including night sweats.

Hormonal Imbalances: When Your Body’s Chemical Messengers Go Awry

Hormones play a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including temperature control. Hormonal imbalances or disorders can lead to excessive nighttime sweating. Some conditions associated with night sweats include:

• Menopause
• Low testosterone
• Carcinoid syndrome
• Hyperthyroidism

Hormonal issues often come with a cluster of symptoms. Are you experiencing any of the following alongside your night sweats?

• Unexplained weight fluctuations
• Changes in energy levels
• Frequent headaches
• Sexual dysfunction
• Menstrual irregularities

If you suspect a hormonal imbalance might be behind your night sweats, consult with an endocrinologist. Many hormonal issues can be effectively managed with proper treatment.

Medications and Night Sweats: Understanding Side Effects

Certain medications can induce night sweats as a side effect. If you’ve recently started a new medication and noticed an increase in nighttime sweating, it’s worth investigating this connection. Some common culprits include:

• Steroids (e.g., prednisone, cortisone)
• Antidepressants (both tricyclic and SSRIs)
• Pain relievers (e.g., aspirin, acetaminophen)
• Diabetes medications that lower blood sugar
• Hormone therapy medications
• Phenothiazine antipsychotics

Never stop taking prescribed medications without consulting your healthcare provider. If night sweats are significantly impacting your sleep quality, discuss your concerns with your doctor. They may be able to adjust your dosage, recommend a different medication, or suggest strategies to manage the side effects.

Medical Conditions Associated with Night Sweats

While environmental factors and lifestyle choices often contribute to night sweats, sometimes they can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. Here are some health issues that may manifest with excessive nighttime sweating:

Hyperhidrosis: When Sweating Becomes Excessive

Hyperhidrosis is a condition characterized by excessive sweating that goes beyond what’s necessary for normal temperature regulation. This disorder can affect various parts of the body and may occur during both day and night. Are you experiencing any of these signs of hyperhidrosis?

• Noticeable sweating that interferes with daily activities
• Sweating occurs even when you’re not hot or exerting yourself
• Sweating is symmetrical, affecting both sides of the body equally
• Episodes of excessive sweating occur at least once a week

Hyperhidrosis can occur on its own (primary hyperhidrosis) or as a symptom of another medical condition (secondary hyperhidrosis). While it’s not life-threatening, it can significantly impact quality of life and may require medical management.

Hypoglycemia: When Blood Sugar Drops Too Low

Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, can cause a variety of symptoms, including night sweats. This condition is common in people with diabetes but can occur for other reasons as well. Along with nighttime sweating, hypoglycemia may cause:

• Nightmares or disorientation upon waking
• Shakiness or unsteadiness
• Intense hunger
• Fatigue or exhaustion
• Irregular or racing heartbeat
• Headaches
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating

In severe cases, hypoglycemia can lead to loss of consciousness or seizures. If you suspect you’re experiencing hypoglycemic episodes, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and management.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): More Than Just Heartburn

GERD, commonly known as acid reflux, can sometimes cause night sweats. This digestive disorder occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus. While GERD is often associated with heartburn, it can present with a variety of symptoms, including:

• Chest pain or esophageal spasms
• Difficulty swallowing
• Regurgitation of food or liquid
• Sleep disturbances
• Respiratory issues, such as chronic coughing or worsened asthma symptoms

If you’re experiencing night sweats along with these symptoms, particularly if they occur twice a week or more, it’s worth discussing with your doctor. GERD can be effectively managed with lifestyle changes and medication if necessary.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Night Sweats

While occasional night sweats are usually not a cause for concern, certain situations warrant a consultation with a healthcare professional. Consider seeking medical advice if:

• Your night sweats are severe, drenching your sleepwear and bedding
• Night sweats persist for more than a few weeks
• You experience other concerning symptoms alongside night sweats, such as unexplained weight loss, fever, or pain
• Night sweats significantly disrupt your sleep or daily life
• You have a history of cancer or are at high risk for lymphoma

A healthcare provider can help determine the underlying cause of your night sweats and recommend appropriate treatment options. They may perform a physical examination, order blood tests, or refer you to a specialist depending on your specific symptoms and medical history.

Strategies for Managing Night Sweats

While addressing the root cause of night sweats is crucial, there are several strategies you can employ to manage symptoms and improve your sleep quality:

1. Optimize your sleep environment:
   • Use breathable, moisture-wicking bedding materials
   • Keep your bedroom cool (around 60-67°F or 15-19°C)
   • Use a fan or air conditioner to improve air circulation
2. Adjust your sleepwear:
   • Opt for lightweight, breathable pajamas
   • Consider moisture-wicking fabrics designed for night sweats
3. Practice good sleep hygiene:
   • Establish a consistent sleep schedule
   • Create a relaxing bedtime routine
   • Avoid screens for at least an hour before bed
4. Manage stress and anxiety:
   • Try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation
   • Consider cognitive-behavioral therapy if stress is a significant factor
5. Stay hydrated:
   • Drink plenty of water throughout the day
   • Keep a glass of water by your bedside for easy access
6. Consider natural remedies:
   • Some people find relief with herbs like sage or black cohosh (consult with a healthcare provider before trying any supplements)

Remember, while these strategies can help manage symptoms, it’s essential to address the underlying cause of persistent night sweats. Work with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

The Impact of Night Sweats on Overall Health and Well-being

Night sweats, particularly when chronic, can have far-reaching effects on your health and quality of life. Consider the following potential impacts:

• Sleep disruption: Frequent night sweats can interrupt your sleep cycle, leading to poor sleep quality and daytime fatigue.
• Dehydration: Excessive sweating can lead to fluid loss, potentially causing dehydration if not adequately replenished.
• Skin irritation: Prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to skin irritation or fungal infections.
• Anxiety and stress: The anticipation of night sweats can create anxiety around bedtime, further exacerbating sleep issues.
• Relationship strain: Night sweats can affect bed partners, potentially leading to separate sleeping arrangements and relationship stress.

By addressing night sweats promptly and effectively, you can mitigate these potential consequences and improve your overall well-being. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if night sweats are impacting your quality of life.

Tracking and Communicating Your Night Sweat Symptoms

If you’re concerned about night sweats, keeping a detailed record of your experiences can be invaluable when consulting with healthcare professionals. Consider tracking the following information:

• Frequency and severity of night sweats
• Time of night when sweating typically occurs
• Any accompanying symptoms (e.g., heart palpitations, nausea, headaches)
• Recent changes in medications or lifestyle
• Dietary habits, particularly noting spicy foods or alcohol consumption
• Stress levels and significant life events
• Menstrual cycle details (for women)

This information can help your healthcare provider identify patterns and potential triggers, leading to more accurate diagnosis and effective treatment strategies. Be prepared to discuss your symptoms openly and honestly with your doctor, as even seemingly unrelated details can provide valuable insights into the underlying cause of your night sweats.

When to Be Concerned About Night Sweats

Night sweats can happen for a number of reasons, and many of them aren’t too serious, such as being too hot or hormonal fluctuations. In some cases, regular episodes of night sweating could indicate a serious medical condition.

It’s not uncommon to sweat at night. You may sweat a little or a lot, depending on how many blankets you sleep with, how warm your room is, and even what you ate before bed.

But if you sweat enough that you regularly wake up with wet pajamas and bedding, there could be an underlying medical issue.

Read on to learn more about possible causes of night sweats, tips to relieve night sweats on your own, and when it may be a good idea to see your healthcare professional.

It’s not always possible to determine the cause of night sweats. But other symptoms you experience along with nighttime sweating could help you narrow down an underlying medical cause.

Your environment

Your room, mattress, and pajamas could all influence whether you sweat during the night. Your bed may be adorned with several cozy blankets that cause overheating. Similarly, your pajamas could be too heavy, or your mattress may not be breathable. Adjusting the environment may help alleviate your night sweats.

Your nighttime routine

External factors beyond your sleeping environment may impact night sweats. These include:

• alcohol use at night
• eating spicy foods at dinner or as a late-night snack
• exercising before sleep

Avoid these behaviors before bedtime to see if your night sweats decrease.

Stress and anxiety

Anxiety and stress are mental health issues, but they often involve physical symptoms, too. Increased sweating is one common physical sign associated with these conditions.

If your night sweats are happening because of anxiety or stress, you might also:

• have feelings of worry, dread, and fear that keep coming back
• find it hard to think about anything besides these feelings
• have sleep issues or unpleasant dreams
• have stomach and digestive trouble
• have unexplained aches, pains, or muscle tension
• feel irritable or have other mood changes
• feel weak, tired, or generally unwell

Addressing the underlying cause of stress and anxiety, generally by working with a therapist, may help improve all of your symptoms.

Hormonal issues

A range of hormonal issues and hormone disorders can cause excessive nighttime sweating.

These include:

• menopause
• low testosterone
• carcinoid syndrome
• hyperthyroidism

Hormonal conditions can cause a range of symptoms, but some general ones include:

• unexplained weight changes
• changes in energy level
• headaches
• sexual dysfunction
• menstrual changes

Many hormonal issues can be managed.

Medication side effects

Certain drugs can cause night sweats as a side effect. If you’ve recently started a new medication and are experiencing night sweats, talk with the doctor who prescribed your medication.

Some common drugs known to sometimes cause night sweats include:

• steroids, including prednisone and cortisone
• both tricyclic and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants
• pain relief medications, such as aspirin and acetaminophen
• medications for diabetes that help lower blood sugar
• hormone therapy medications
• phenothiazine antipsychotics

If the night sweats have a negative impact on your sleep, a doctor may recommend a different medication or have suggestions to help you manage the side effects.

Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis causes you to sweat excessively to the point of it being noticeable to you and possibly others. It may interfere with your daily life.

But it can be inconvenient and require management. You may have the condition with no underlying causes. Or it may be a symptom of another medical condition or a side effect of medication.

Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia occurs when you have low blood sugar. It could cause you to sweat at night or during the day. You may have hypoglycemia if you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Other reasons for low blood sugar may include alternations in hormone levels or metabolism.

In addition to excessive sweating during sleep, you may have nightmares or feel disoriented after awakening.

Other symptoms of hypoglycemia are:

• unsteadiness
• shaking
• hunger
• exhaustion or fatigue
• racing or irregular heartbeat
• headaches
• disorientation

Severe symptoms include losing consciousness or having a seizure.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

You can experience GERD during the day or at night, and it can sometimes cause night sweats.

Along with night sweats, GERD can cause:

• heartburn, often after meals
• chest pain or esophageal spasms
• problems with swallowing
• regurgitation (when liquid or food comes back up after swallowing)
• sleep issues
• respiratory problems, including coughing or increased symptoms of asthma

GERD is generally diagnosed if you experience this at least twice per week, or if more severe reflux happens once per week or more.

Sleep apnea

Sleep apnea is a condition that causes you to stop breathing while asleep, usually multiple times in a night.

Obstructive sleep apnea generally occurs when something like throat tissue blocks your airway. You can also develop central sleep apnea when certain health conditions affect the function in your central nervous system.

If you have sleep apnea, you might also:

• feel tired during the day
• wake often in the night or sleep restlessly
• wake up struggling to breathe
• have difficulty focusing during the day
• have headaches

Sleep apnea can have serious complications if it goes untreated, such as increased risk for respiratory and cardiovascular issues.

Women going through menopause who experience night sweats may also be at a greater risk for developing sleep apnea, according to a 2018 study.

It’s a good idea to see a doctor for night sweats that happen with other symptoms of sleep apnea.

Serious infections

Some serious infections can also cause night sweats, including:

• tuberculosis, a highly contagious infection that usually affects your lungs
• endocarditis, an infection in the valves of your heart
• osteomyelitis, an infection in your bones
• brucellosis, an infection you can get from animals with brucellosis or unpasteurized products from infected animals
• HIV
• fungal infections
• infectious mononucleosis (mono)
• other infections

But as with cancer, infections also tend to cause other noticeable symptoms. These include:

• chills and fever
• aching muscles and joints
• body pain
• general weakness or fatigue
• weight loss
• lack of appetite

Call a doctor if you have any of the symptoms above.

Neurological disorders

In rare cases, night sweats can occur as a symptom of certain neurological issues, including:

• stroke
• autonomic dysreflexia
• autonomic neuropathy
• syringomyelia

Neurological issues can involve many symptoms, but some might include:

• appetite loss or other GI or urinary symptoms
• losing consciousness
• feeling dizzy or lightheaded
• trembling
• muscular weakness
• numbness and tingling in your arms, hands, legs, and feet

Cancer

It’s possible for unexplained night sweats to be a symptom of cancer, but this doesn’t happen often. If you do have cancer, you’ll most likely have other noticeable symptoms, too.

These symptoms may seem to resemble other, less serious health issues, like the flu.

It’s a good idea to contact a doctor if you have night sweats and feel fatigued or generally unwell.

It’s particularly recommended to see a doctor if you have a fever that doesn’t go away and you’ve recently lost weight without trying, as these can be early signs of cancer.

Types of cancer often linked to night sweating include:

• Hodgkin’s lymphoma
• non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
• leukemia

These cancers also involve the following symptoms:

• persistent fatigue and body weakness
• fever
• chills
• unintentional weight loss
• swollen lymph nodes
• chest and stomach pain
• bone pain

If you don’t have other symptoms that might indicate something more concerning, try these tips to relieve night sweats:

• Crack a window. Sleep in a cooler room. Leave windows cracked open at night, if possible, or try using a fan.
• Change your bedding. Replace plush or heavy blankets with breathable sheets, light quilts, or even moisture-wicking sheets. It can even help to remove extra bedding and sleep under lighter layers, so you may not need to buy new sheets or blankets.
• Adjust exercise timing. Physical activity just before sleeping could contribute to increased sweating in the night.
• Avoid sweat triggers. Avoid eating spicy foods, smoking cigarettes, or drinking alcohol right before going to bed.

If you only get night sweats occasionally and they don’t significantly affect your sleep quality, you probably don’t need to be too concerned. Still, you may want to mention them the next time you see your doctor.

But if you’re having trouble sleeping, regularly have night sweats, or have other symptoms that concern you, it’s best to check in with a healthcare professional.

Some potentially serious symptoms to watch for include:

• unexplained weight loss
• body aches and pains
• high fever and chills
• chronic or bloody cough
• diarrhea or stomach pain

A doctor can help you get to the bottom of your night sweats and, if needed, come up with a treatment plan.

Your doctor will use several different methods to determine the cause of frequent or disruptive night sweats. These may include:

• discussing your symptoms, health history, and medications
• going through your family history
• conducting a physical exam
• ordering laboratory or imaging tests to determine an underlying health condition

Your doctor may refer you to a specialist if they suspect an underlying health condition that requires specialized treatment.

There are many reasons you may sweat at night.

The first culprit to consider is your environment, including your clothing, bedding, and the temperature of your room. Next, examine your habits before bedtime.

If you adjust these factors and still wake up in sweat, there may be another cause. Speak with a doctor to diagnose and treat the cause so you can get back to more comfortable sleep.

When to Be Concerned About Night Sweats

Night sweats can happen for a number of reasons, and many of them aren’t too serious, such as being too hot or hormonal fluctuations. In some cases, regular episodes of night sweating could indicate a serious medical condition.

It’s not uncommon to sweat at night. You may sweat a little or a lot, depending on how many blankets you sleep with, how warm your room is, and even what you ate before bed.

But if you sweat enough that you regularly wake up with wet pajamas and bedding, there could be an underlying medical issue.

Read on to learn more about possible causes of night sweats, tips to relieve night sweats on your own, and when it may be a good idea to see your healthcare professional.

It’s not always possible to determine the cause of night sweats. But other symptoms you experience along with nighttime sweating could help you narrow down an underlying medical cause.

Your environment

Your room, mattress, and pajamas could all influence whether you sweat during the night. Your bed may be adorned with several cozy blankets that cause overheating. Similarly, your pajamas could be too heavy, or your mattress may not be breathable. Adjusting the environment may help alleviate your night sweats.

Your nighttime routine

External factors beyond your sleeping environment may impact night sweats. These include:

• alcohol use at night
• eating spicy foods at dinner or as a late-night snack
• exercising before sleep

Avoid these behaviors before bedtime to see if your night sweats decrease.

Stress and anxiety

Anxiety and stress are mental health issues, but they often involve physical symptoms, too. Increased sweating is one common physical sign associated with these conditions.

If your night sweats are happening because of anxiety or stress, you might also:

• have feelings of worry, dread, and fear that keep coming back
• find it hard to think about anything besides these feelings
• have sleep issues or unpleasant dreams
• have stomach and digestive trouble
• have unexplained aches, pains, or muscle tension
• feel irritable or have other mood changes
• feel weak, tired, or generally unwell

Addressing the underlying cause of stress and anxiety, generally by working with a therapist, may help improve all of your symptoms.

Hormonal issues

A range of hormonal issues and hormone disorders can cause excessive nighttime sweating.

These include:

• menopause
• low testosterone
• carcinoid syndrome
• hyperthyroidism

Hormonal conditions can cause a range of symptoms, but some general ones include:

• unexplained weight changes
• changes in energy level
• headaches
• sexual dysfunction
• menstrual changes

Many hormonal issues can be managed.

Medication side effects

Certain drugs can cause night sweats as a side effect. If you’ve recently started a new medication and are experiencing night sweats, talk with the doctor who prescribed your medication.

Some common drugs known to sometimes cause night sweats include:

• steroids, including prednisone and cortisone
• both tricyclic and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants
• pain relief medications, such as aspirin and acetaminophen
• medications for diabetes that help lower blood sugar
• hormone therapy medications
• phenothiazine antipsychotics

If the night sweats have a negative impact on your sleep, a doctor may recommend a different medication or have suggestions to help you manage the side effects.

Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis causes you to sweat excessively to the point of it being noticeable to you and possibly others. It may interfere with your daily life.

But it can be inconvenient and require management. You may have the condition with no underlying causes. Or it may be a symptom of another medical condition or a side effect of medication.

Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia occurs when you have low blood sugar. It could cause you to sweat at night or during the day. You may have hypoglycemia if you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Other reasons for low blood sugar may include alternations in hormone levels or metabolism.

In addition to excessive sweating during sleep, you may have nightmares or feel disoriented after awakening.

Other symptoms of hypoglycemia are:

• unsteadiness
• shaking
• hunger
• exhaustion or fatigue
• racing or irregular heartbeat
• headaches
• disorientation

Severe symptoms include losing consciousness or having a seizure.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

You can experience GERD during the day or at night, and it can sometimes cause night sweats.

Along with night sweats, GERD can cause:

• heartburn, often after meals
• chest pain or esophageal spasms
• problems with swallowing
• regurgitation (when liquid or food comes back up after swallowing)
• sleep issues
• respiratory problems, including coughing or increased symptoms of asthma

GERD is generally diagnosed if you experience this at least twice per week, or if more severe reflux happens once per week or more.

Sleep apnea

Sleep apnea is a condition that causes you to stop breathing while asleep, usually multiple times in a night.

Obstructive sleep apnea generally occurs when something like throat tissue blocks your airway. You can also develop central sleep apnea when certain health conditions affect the function in your central nervous system.

If you have sleep apnea, you might also:

• feel tired during the day
• wake often in the night or sleep restlessly
• wake up struggling to breathe
• have difficulty focusing during the day
• have headaches

Sleep apnea can have serious complications if it goes untreated, such as increased risk for respiratory and cardiovascular issues.

Women going through menopause who experience night sweats may also be at a greater risk for developing sleep apnea, according to a 2018 study.

It’s a good idea to see a doctor for night sweats that happen with other symptoms of sleep apnea.

Serious infections

Some serious infections can also cause night sweats, including:

• tuberculosis, a highly contagious infection that usually affects your lungs
• endocarditis, an infection in the valves of your heart
• osteomyelitis, an infection in your bones
• brucellosis, an infection you can get from animals with brucellosis or unpasteurized products from infected animals
• HIV
• fungal infections
• infectious mononucleosis (mono)
• other infections

But as with cancer, infections also tend to cause other noticeable symptoms. These include:

• chills and fever
• aching muscles and joints
• body pain
• general weakness or fatigue
• weight loss
• lack of appetite

Call a doctor if you have any of the symptoms above.

Neurological disorders

In rare cases, night sweats can occur as a symptom of certain neurological issues, including:

• stroke
• autonomic dysreflexia
• autonomic neuropathy
• syringomyelia

Neurological issues can involve many symptoms, but some might include:

• appetite loss or other GI or urinary symptoms
• losing consciousness
• feeling dizzy or lightheaded
• trembling
• muscular weakness
• numbness and tingling in your arms, hands, legs, and feet

Cancer

It’s possible for unexplained night sweats to be a symptom of cancer, but this doesn’t happen often. If you do have cancer, you’ll most likely have other noticeable symptoms, too.

These symptoms may seem to resemble other, less serious health issues, like the flu.

It’s a good idea to contact a doctor if you have night sweats and feel fatigued or generally unwell.

It’s particularly recommended to see a doctor if you have a fever that doesn’t go away and you’ve recently lost weight without trying, as these can be early signs of cancer.

Types of cancer often linked to night sweating include:

• Hodgkin’s lymphoma
• non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
• leukemia

These cancers also involve the following symptoms:

• persistent fatigue and body weakness
• fever
• chills
• unintentional weight loss
• swollen lymph nodes
• chest and stomach pain
• bone pain

If you don’t have other symptoms that might indicate something more concerning, try these tips to relieve night sweats:

• Crack a window. Sleep in a cooler room. Leave windows cracked open at night, if possible, or try using a fan.
• Change your bedding. Replace plush or heavy blankets with breathable sheets, light quilts, or even moisture-wicking sheets. It can even help to remove extra bedding and sleep under lighter layers, so you may not need to buy new sheets or blankets.
• Adjust exercise timing. Physical activity just before sleeping could contribute to increased sweating in the night.
• Avoid sweat triggers. Avoid eating spicy foods, smoking cigarettes, or drinking alcohol right before going to bed.

If you only get night sweats occasionally and they don’t significantly affect your sleep quality, you probably don’t need to be too concerned. Still, you may want to mention them the next time you see your doctor.

But if you’re having trouble sleeping, regularly have night sweats, or have other symptoms that concern you, it’s best to check in with a healthcare professional.

Some potentially serious symptoms to watch for include:

• unexplained weight loss
• body aches and pains
• high fever and chills
• chronic or bloody cough
• diarrhea or stomach pain

A doctor can help you get to the bottom of your night sweats and, if needed, come up with a treatment plan.

Your doctor will use several different methods to determine the cause of frequent or disruptive night sweats. These may include:

• discussing your symptoms, health history, and medications
• going through your family history
• conducting a physical exam
• ordering laboratory or imaging tests to determine an underlying health condition

Your doctor may refer you to a specialist if they suspect an underlying health condition that requires specialized treatment.

There are many reasons you may sweat at night.

The first culprit to consider is your environment, including your clothing, bedding, and the temperature of your room. Next, examine your habits before bedtime.

If you adjust these factors and still wake up in sweat, there may be another cause. Speak with a doctor to diagnose and treat the cause so you can get back to more comfortable sleep.

Night sweats

Menopause

Thyrotoxicosis

Encephalitis

3732

01 August

Night sweats – the causes of occurrence, in which diseases it occurs, diagnosis and methods of treatment.

According to statistics, more than a third of patients complain of periodic sweating that occurs during the day. Far from always, this condition is a sign of a disease, but if such a symptom occurs regularly for no apparent reason and at night, this should be paid attention to.

Types of episodes of sweating

When talking to a doctor about the occurrence of episodes of sweating at night, many people mean different manifestations by this. In some cases, this refers to perspiration on the forehead, and in others, so much sweat that you have to change clothes, and sometimes bed linen. In addition, the number of episodes of increased sweating, or hyperhidrosis, per night and the accompanying symptoms (snoring, holding your breath, fever, fear, insomnia, frequent urination) are important.

Possible causes

Increased heat production and sweating can be caused by various reasons, including those not related to the disease.

First of all, you should pay attention to the microclimate of the room and bedding.

Too warm blankets, synthetic clothes, elevated temperature in the bedroom will inevitably cause bouts of night sweats. If the above is excluded from the list of causes of excessive sweating, then other possible factors should be considered.

Excessive sweating can occur as a result of infectious diseases with alternating periods of increase and sharp decrease in temperature. A sharp decrease in temperature in viral infections (flu, SARS, mononucleosis), bacterial diseases (pneumonia, tuberculosis, endocarditis, lung abscess), septic fevers is always accompanied by profuse sweating. A number of tumors also give such a symptom as increased sweating. Pheochromocytoma (a tumor of the adrenal glands that secretes the catecholamines adrenaline and norepinephrine) causes hyperproduction of sweat due to increased production of hormones.

With lymphoma, along with the general signs of intoxication, night sweats can be profuse (profuse). Excessive sweating is accompanied by some endocrine diseases.

In women, increased heat production, leading to hyperhidrosis, occurs during hormonal changes: during pregnancy and perimenopause. Against the background of a decrease in the level of estrogens and an increase in the content of follicle-stimulating hormone, a change in the distribution of blood in the vessels of the skin occurs. This explains the sudden reddening of the skin and sweating during hot flashes. Men can also experience night sweats during andropause, an age-related decrease in the production of the sex hormone testosterone.

Increased sweating can be a symptom of thyrotoxicosis – a disorder of endocrine regulation due to dysfunction of the thyroid gland.

In this disease, there is an increased metabolism and an increase in body temperature, which causes hyperproduction of sweat. Nervousness and psychological instability, characteristic of patients with thyrotoxicosis, also contribute to the increase in sweating.

Hypoglycemia in diabetics leads to episodes of night sweats.

Acromegaly, in which the production of somatotropin growth hormone is increased, is almost always accompanied by increased sweat production in the evening and at night.

Be sure to mention obesity, which also increases sweating. This process can be associated not only with the activity of the endocrine glands, but also with the use of products that stimulate the sweat glands.

At night, sweat can come out with a sudden cessation of breathing – apnea. As a rule, in this case, perspiration appears mainly on the face. Episodes of transient cerebrovascular accident, hypertensive crisis, encephalitis, and volumetric brain tumors can lead to sweating disorders. All these diseases can be accompanied not only by increased sweating, but also by other signs of autonomic dysfunction: chills, fear, irritability. Sweat on the face often occurs with Parkinson’s disease. Panic attacks are among the neurological conditions associated with excessive night sweats. They are characterized by an unexpected and inexplicable attack of feeling unwell, accompanied by fear or anxiety. Panic attacks can occur either in certain uncomfortable situations, such as when riding the subway, or develop for no apparent reason (at night) and be accompanied by a feeling of fear, palpitations and sweating.

Increased sweating is often provoked by taking medications (cytostatics, aspirin, insulin, prozerin), alcohol, drugs, sometimes this phenomenon is observed with withdrawal reactions (occurring when psychoactive substances are stopped).

Diagnostics and examinations

First of all, you need to make sure that sweating does not serve as a reaction to elevated room temperature, excessively warm bedding and clothes. It is necessary to exclude the infectious nature of sweating, in particular, tuberculosis. At the same time, it is important to establish the patient’s belonging to risk groups for tuberculosis (migrants; persons released from prison; persons in whose families there is a patient with tuberculosis; frequently ill patients; HIV-infected; patients with diabetes mellitus people receiving corticosteroids and immunosuppressive therapy, as well as chemotherapy and radiation therapy for cancer). Long-term respiratory symptoms dictate the need for chest x-ray, clinical blood test, sputum examination for acid-resistant mycobacteria by microscopy (three times) and immunodiagnosis of tuberculosis infection.

If sweating is a consequence of endocrine disorders, as evidenced by concomitant symptoms, blood tests for hormones (if thyrotoxicosis, ovarian dysfunction is suspected) or glucose (if diabetes is suspected) are necessary.

With pheochromocytoma, the balance of catecholamines and their metabolites in the urine and blood is disturbed, therefore, to diagnose this disease, a blood and urine test for the content of adrenaline, noradrenaline and dopamine is necessary.

In the absence of data confirming the infectious or endocrine nature of sweating, an examination for the presence of oncological diseases is necessary.

Which doctors should I contact?

First of all, you need to visit
a therapist who, after a survey and an initial examination, can give directions for tests and additional examinations. With hormonal disorders, further treatment is
endocrinologist. In the case of infectious diseases, either the therapist or the infectious disease specialist will continue the treatment. When tuberculosis is confirmed, the patient is sent to the anti-tuberculosis dispensary. In the presence of tumor diseases, they turn to an oncologist.

What should I do if I’m sweating?

If sweating is associated with a natural restructuring of the hormonal background, you need to take it calmly – experiences and nervous breakdowns will only exacerbate the problem.

Treatment

Increased sweating, if it is not caused by uncomfortable temperature conditions and a genetic predisposition, is only a symptom of a pathological condition.

Therefore, the main task is the treatment of the causative disease.

Sources:

1. Clinical guidelines “TB in adults”. Developed by: Russian Society of Phthisiologists, Association of Phthisiologists. – 2022.
2. Clinical guidelines “Tuberculosis in children”. Developed by: Russian society of phthisiatricians. – 2020.
3. Clinical guidelines “Menopause and menopause in women.” Developed by: Russian Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. – 2021.

IMPORTANT!

The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For diagnosis and proper treatment, you should contact your doctor.
For a correct assessment of the results of your analyzes in dynamics, it is preferable to do studies in the same laboratory, since different laboratories may use different research methods and units of measurement to perform the same analyzes.

Night sweats may indicate these problems

What causes night sweats?
You may sweat when your room gets warm or you throw on too many blankets. But that’s not what we’re talking about. “Night sweats” refers to recurring profuse sweating in the middle of the night, which can wake you up, and sometimes so badly that you need to change your sheets. This is usually due to a medical problem. Working with it, whatever it is, can make sweating easier.

Overactive thyroid
Increased sweating and sensitivity to heat are prominent symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Your thyroid controls your metabolism, so when it produces too many hormones, your body goes into overload mode. Your body temperature rises, and you may feel more hungry or thirsty, have a faster heart rate or trembling hands, feel tired and out of sorts, have diarrhea, and lose weight.

Low blood sugar
Do you have diabetes? While your blood glucose levels may be normal when you go to bed, they may drop while you sleep. Perhaps you had a very active day, or you played sports in the evening, or you had a late dinner. If you are using insulin or taking sulfonylurea drugs to treat diabetes, this may be the cause of your nocturnal hypoglycemia. When your glucose level is below 140 mg/dL before bed, or you know it might drop in a few hours, have a snack.

Sleep apnea
When you have this condition, you briefly stop breathing again and again during the night. Because your body is not getting oxygen, it can go into fight or flight mode, which causes you to sweat. Every time he needs to start breathing, this also means a surge in the work of your muscles. People who use a CPAP machine to help them breathe at night experience night sweats about as often as those who don’t have sleep apnea.

Acid reflux
It’s not just heartburn and chest pain that can wake you up. GERD hasn’t been studied much as a cause of night sweats, but doctors say there’s a possible link. And treating it can often relieve your night sweats. Eat smaller meals and not before bed. Avoid trigger foods – such as fatty, fried or tomato-based foods. See your doctor if your symptoms are severe or appear more than a couple of times a week.

Lymphoma
Many types of cancer can cause night sweats, but the most common is lymphoma, which starts in parts of your body’s immune system, such as the lymph nodes, spleen, bone marrow, and thymus. About a quarter of people with Hodgkin’s lymphoma have night sweats and a mild fever. They may also feel tired, itchy, and, after drinking alcohol, pain where their tumor is. People with aggressive or advanced non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma may also sweat profusely at night.

Medicines
Many medications can cause night sweats, including over-the-counter antipyretics such as acetaminophen and NSAIDs such as aspirin and ibuprofen. The most common suspects are old antidepressants called tricyclics or TCAs, as well as bupropion and venlafaxine, hormone replacement therapy, and steroids such as cortisone and prednisone. Some medications for glaucoma and dry mouth also stimulate your sweat glands. Check with your pharmacist or doctor.

Tuberculosis
About half of all people with this condition experience night sweats. Bacteria usually grow in your lungs. You are likely to have a severe, painful cough with blood and colored mucus (phlegm). You may also feel feverish, tired, weak, and have no appetite.

Alarm
Stress, anxiety, and panic can make you sweat during the day, so it’s no surprise that anxiety can have the same effect at night. Night terrors and sleep terrors are less common in adults than in children, but both can make anyone sweat and heart pounding. Seek help from a counselor, therapist, or your doctor if these disorders continue or cause problems in your life.

HIV
Fever, pain or swollen lymph nodes, and joint pain are more common symptoms after you first become infected with the virus and become HIV-positive, but about 1 in 10 people develop night sweats. People living with HIV who have symptoms such as weight loss and diarrhea may experience night sweats about once a week. They can also be caused by AIDS-related opportunistic infections such as mycobacterium avium (MAC, MAI) and cytomegalovirus.

Tumors
Prostate cancer, kidney cancer, and some tumors in the ovaries and testicles (both cancerous and not) are common examples of what doctors call “solid tumors,” which can cause night sweats. A type of advanced thyroid cancer and pancreatic cancer can also trigger them. Night sweats are a classic symptom of carcinoid syndrome, a rare cancer usually found in your digestive system or lungs.

Menopause
“Hot flashes” before and after your last period can be difficult to distinguish from night sweats. Young women who have had both ovaries removed or who have stopped menstruating due to chemotherapy may also receive them. They are more likely to happen when you are anxious, depressed, or drinking every day. But just because you’re a woman of the right age (usually in your 40s or 50s), don’t assume that your night sweats are related to menopause.