Night sweats can be scary, especially if they’re a nightly occurrence. While occasional sweating during sleep is normal, if it’s happening frequently, it may indicate an underlying health issue. Let’s look at some of the causes of night sweats and what can be done.
1. Environmental Factors
The temperature of your bedroom can play a significant role in determining whether you experience night sweats. If your room is too warm, or you have heavy pajamas or excessive blankets on, you’re at a greater risk of sweating simply because you’re warmer. Changes in your body’s core temperature rise and fall during different sleep phases, which can also lead to sweating.1
2. Stress & Anxiety
Stress and anxiety don’t stop after you fall asleep! Nightmares and general anxiety can trigger night sweats while you sleep. Often accompanied by other physical symptoms like a racing heartbeat or rapid breathing, try to be mindful and keep stress levels in check during the day so your sleep is less affected as well.
3. Hormonal Fluctuations
Hormonal shifts, like those experienced during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, can lead to night sweats (ah, the joys of being a women). These fluctuations affect your body temperature regulation and as such can make you sweat.
4. Medication Side Effects
Some medications, like antidepressants, pain relievers, and hormone therapies, can also cause night sweats as a side effect. If you’ve recently started a new medication and have noticed an increase in sweating while you sleep, you should have a conversation with your healthcare provider.
Read More: Eating for Better Sleep: 6 Foods High in Melatonin
5. Underlying Medical Conditions
Sweating can also be a symptom of a bunch of different medical conditions, including hyperthyroidism, hypoglycemia, GERD, and infections like tuberculosis or HIV. Make sure you identify and treat the underlying causes to address night sweats effectively.2
6. Sleep Disorders
Common conditions like sleep apnea can trigger night sweats as well. If your sleep is being disrupted and you’re struggling to breathe, it can lead to increased perspiration during the night.3
7. Substance Use
Alcohol, marijuana, and other substances can affect your body temperature regulation and, therefore, lead to sweating during sleep. If you’re struggling with substance use disorders, you’re likely at a greater risk of night sweats, particularly during withdrawal.
Seeking Relief
If you’re experiencing frequent night sweats, it’s important to talk to a healthcare professional to nail down the cause. Treatment options will vary depending on the diagnosis, but they often entail lifestyle modifications, medication adjustments, or targeted therapies. Understanding the potential reasons and addressing them proactively will improve your sleep quality and overall well-being.
Read More: 6 Things You Shouldn’t Do In Bed to Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Sources
- “Why Am I Experiencing Night Sweats?” Healthline. David Heitz and Erika Klein. March 16, 2023
- “Night Sweats Causes and When You Should See a Doctor.” Healthline. Crystal Raypole and Natalie Silver. February 14, 2023
- “Why Do I Sweat in My Sleep?” Very Well Health. Brandon Peters, MD. January 10, 2024
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and is for information only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about your medical condition and/or current medication. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking advice or treatment because of something you have read here.
