Night sweats

Overview

Night sweats are episodes of heavy sweating during sleep that soak through your nightclothes or bedding. They can happen for many reasons, from something simple like a warm bedroom to an underlying medical condition.

Yes, night sweats are a common complaint. Many people experience them at some point in their lives, especially during times of hormonal change or illness.

Night sweats can affect people of any age, but they are more common in women during menopause and perimenopause, and in people who have infections or certain chronic conditions.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Waking up drenched in sweat
• Need to change nightclothes or sheets during the night
• Feeling hot or flushed before or during sweating episodes
• Sleep disruption due to discomfort

Symptoms in children

• Children may also have night sweats, often from a warm room, fever, or common infections.
• If your child has persistent night sweats with weight loss or fever, see a doctor.

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults may experience night sweats due to medication side effects or underlying health conditions like thyroid problems or infections.

Causes

Main causes

• Hormonal changes, such as menopause or perimenopause
• Infections like tuberculosis, HIV, or endocarditis (infection of heart valves)
• Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
• Certain cancers, such as lymphoma or leukemia
• Medications, including antidepressants, hormone therapies, and some diabetes drugs
• Anxiety or stress
• Sleep disorders like obstructive sleep apnea
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) during sleep

Risk factors

• Being a woman around menopause age
• Having a chronic infection or illness
• Taking medications known to cause sweating
• Drinking alcohol, caffeine, or spicy foods close to bedtime
• Sleeping in a room that is too warm or with heavy bedding
• Having anxiety or panic disorder

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Night sweats with fever, weight loss, or persistent cough
• Night sweats that wake you every night and soak the bed for more than a week

Book a routine appointment if:

• Night sweats that last several weeks without other symptoms
• If you are worried about any possible cause

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any medications you take. They may also ask about your sleep environment and lifestyle habits.

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests to check for infection, thyroid function, and blood cell counts
• Imaging tests like chest X-ray or CT scan if needed
• Sleep studies if sleep apnea is suspected

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor will work with you to find the cause. Sometimes no specific cause is found. They will help you manage the symptoms and treat any underlying condition.

Treatment

Treatment for night sweats depends on the underlying cause. In many cases, simple self-care steps can help. If a medical condition is found, treating it usually relieves the sweats.

Self-care at home

• Keep your bedroom cool and well-ventilated
• Use moisture-wicking sheets and lightweight pajamas
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and spicy foods before bed
• Practice relaxation techniques to reduce stress and anxiety
• Stay hydrated by drinking water during the day

Medical treatments

If night sweats are caused by menopause, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or other hormonal treatments may be recommended. For infections, antibiotics or antiviral medications are used. If caused by thyroid problems, medications to regulate hormone levels can help. Always discuss options with your doctor.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for night sweats themselves, but may be part of treatment for an underlying condition such as a tumor or thyroid problem.

Living with this condition

Night sweats can be disruptive, but most people can manage them with simple adjustments. Keep spare sheets and nightwear nearby for easy changes.

Lifestyle tips

• Choose breathable bedding made of cotton or bamboo
• Try a cooling pillow or mattress topper
• Limit hot showers or baths right before bed
• Keep a glass of water by your bed

Diet and exercise

Eating a balanced diet and getting regular exercise can help regulate body temperature and improve sleep quality. Avoid heavy meals close to bedtime.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Persistent night sweats can cause embarrassment, anxiety, and poor sleep, which may affect your mood and energy. It's important to talk to your doctor and get support.

Prevention

Not all night sweats can be prevented, but you can lower your risk by managing stress, avoiding triggers like alcohol and spicy foods before bed, and keeping your sleep environment cool.

Complications

If left untreated

• Sleep deprivation and fatigue
• Worsening of underlying condition if left untreated
• Increased stress and anxiety

Long-term outlook

For most people, night sweats improve with treatment of the cause or with simple lifestyle changes. Even when a cause is found, it is often treatable. Your outlook is good with the right support and care.

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