Night sweats are severe hot flashes that occur at night and result in intense sweating. They are a common symptom during menopause, causing many women to wake up drenched in sweat. However, night sweats can also indicate an underlying medical condition.
What causes night sweats?
Night sweats have several potential causes:
- Menopause - As estrogen levels drop during perimenopause and menopause, many women experience vasomotor symptoms like night sweats and hot flashes. This is a natural cause.
- Medications - Antidepressants, hormones, and some other drugs can trigger sweating as a side effect.
- Infections - Fevers and infections like TB, endocarditis, and HIV can induce sweating, along with chills.
- Cancers - Night sweats are an early symptom of lymphomas and leukemias. The cancer cells may release cytokines that disrupt temperature regulation.
- Hypoglycemia - Low blood sugar levels can also cause sweating.
- Hormone disorders - Thyroid disorders, carcinoid syndrome, pheochromocytoma, and other hormone imbalances influence temperature regulation.
- Idiopathic - Sometimes the cause is unknown even after evaluation by a doctor.
When to see a doctor
You should make an appointment with your doctor if night sweats:
- Happen without an obvious cause like menopause or a hot room
- Are accompanied by other unexplained symptoms
- Interfere significantly with sleep
Your doctor can help determine if an underlying condition is causing the night sweats and recommend appropriate treatment. Blood tests, imaging scans, biopsies, etc. may be necessary for diagnosis.
The experts at
Hormone Harmony Clinic specialize in night sweat treatment during menopause and for other hormone disorders using the latest medical therapies, lifestyle changes, and holistic methods.
"We help women regulate their hormones for relief from debilitating hot flashes and night sweats," says Dr. Jane Doe.
Book a
consultation to discover which night sweat remedies are right for your symptoms. Hormone Harmony Clinic' individualized care plans control hormonal causes of temperature dysfunction while addressing whole patient wellness.
Tips for managing night sweats
While seeking medical advice, making certain lifestyle adjustments can help reduce night sweat frequency and severity:
- Keep the bedroom cool - Lower the thermostat and use lightweight bedding
- Stay hydrated - Drink plenty of cool liquids
- Wear moisture-wicking pajamas - Choose sweat-wicking fabrics
- Exercise earlier in the day
- Limit spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol which can trigger flushing
- Try relaxation techniques - Slow breathing, meditation, yoga
- Supplements like evening primrose oil, vitamin E, black cohosh may help for menopausal sweats
By understanding the various
causes of night sweats and getting proper medical care, you can find relief and prevent disruptions to your sleep. Reach out today if embarrassing or uncomfortable night sweats are impacting your rest.