Night sweats
Night sweats refer to severe hot flashes and excessive sweating that occurs during sleep. They are a common symptom of various medical conditions and illnesses.
Some key points about night sweats:
- They involve drenching sweats that require changing night clothes or bedsheets
- They typically happen during deep REM sleep cycles
- They can occur daily or a few times a week
- They affect both men and women
What causes night sweats?
Night sweats can be caused by a wide range of conditions. Some common causes include:
- Menopause - Hot flashes from hormonal changes
- Infections - Tuberculosis, endocarditis, osteomyelitis
- Cancers - Leukemia and lymphoma
- Medications - Antidepressants, pain relievers, hormones
- Anxiety disorders
- Hypoglycemia - Low blood sugar
Night sweats can also occur idiopathically without an underlying cause. However, new onset of severe night sweats should always be evaluated by a doctor to rule out serious conditions.
How are night sweats diagnosed and treated?
Diagnosing the cause of night sweats involves taking a detailed history and physical exam. Your doctor may order blood tests or imaging scans to pinpoint the underlying condition.
Treatment depends on the cause but can include:
- Treating infections with antibiotics
- Changing or stopping medications
- Hormone therapy for perimenopausal women
- Cognitive behavioral therapy and medications for anxiety
- Cancer treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, surgery
- Lifestyle changes - Stress management, proper sleep hygiene, exercise
In many cases, successfully treating the underlying cause will eliminate night sweats. Supportive measures like keeping the bedroom cool at night, wearing breathable pajamas, using moisture-wicking sheets can also provide relief.