Night sweats refer to excessive sweating during sleep. They are a common symptom that can have many different causes, ranging from lifestyle factors like stress to underlying medical conditions.
Some key things to know about night sweats:
- They are defined as severe hot flashes occurring at night that can drench sleepwear and sheets. Mild sweating at night is normal, but true night sweats are heavy, unexpected, and interfering with sleep.
- Possible causes include:
- Menopause and perimenopause in women
- Low blood sugar
- Hormone disorders like hyperthyroidism
- Anxiety and stress
- Side effect of medications
- Infections like tuberculosis and HIV
- Cancer lymphomas
- Diagnosis involves evaluating both lifestyle factors and medical history to pinpoint the cause:
- Doctors will ask about medications, stress levels, sleep environment, etc.
- They may order blood tests, imaging scans, or other tests.
- Treatment depends on the underlying trigger. Some options include:
- Hormone therapy if due to perimenopause
- Medication adjustments if night sweats are a side effect
- Antidepressants or therapy for anxiety/depression
- Treatment for infections, cancer, etc. if an underlying condition
- Lifestyle changes like keeping the bedroom cool, wearing breathable pajamas, avoiding spicy foods, and managing stress can also help reduce night sweats.
In summary, night sweats involve drenching sweating at night that interferes with sleep. They have many potential causes ranging from menopause to infections, with diagnosis requiring an evaluation of medical history and tests. Treatment targets the root cause, and lifestyle tweaks can also help manage symptoms. Consult with a healthcare professional at Vitality Wellness Center if experiencing excessive or concerning night sweats to identify next steps.