Sleep

Night sweats - causes and how to stop them

Excessive sweating at night is often referred to as night sweats. Many people find them to be an uncomfortable aspect of life and may be connected to depression and related issues. 

Although night sweats are a common menopause symptom, other medical conditions and some medicines might also cause them. 

Night sweats are not a big problem. Even so, it's crucial to understand when to get checked out if you experience night sweats.

What are the causes of night sweats?

As the body's mechanism for controlling temperature is complex and affected by various circumstances, it can occasionally be challenging to identify the cause of night sweats. 

Nevertheless, menopause, medication, infections, and hormone issues are the common causes of night sweats.

1. Menopause

A change in lifestyle, such as avoiding alcohol and sleeping in cool environments, may help you with hot flashes and night sweats. If these don't work, hormone therapy can lessen hot flashes and relieve other symptoms. Some treatments for hot flashes that your doctor might recommend include Paxil and gabapentin. Night sweats are another off-label application for venlafaxine. 

It may not surprise that up to 64% of women report having trouble sleeping and experiencing more sleeplessness during perimenopause and menopause. Although they are not the main source of these sleep issues, night sweats can make it harder to fall asleep, especially if they are severe.

2. Medication

There is evidence that certain medicines may cause night sweats. They include some antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), steroids, and medications used to treat fevers, including aspirin or acetaminophen, which ironically can also make you sweat.

Caffeine use may be a cause of night sweats in certain people. The use of drugs and alcohol may worsen the night sweats in others. 

3. Hormonal issues

Night sweats may be caused by changes in the endocrine system, which controls hormone levels. Inappropriate amounts of sex hormones, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, and increased blood sugar are some hormone issues linked to night sweats. 

The hypothalamus, a brain region connected to the endocrine system, controls body temperature. Hormonal imbalances and night sweats may both be symptoms of hypothalamic dysfunction.

4. Pregnancy 

Fluctuating hormone levels may also cause night sweats during pregnancy. Sweats associated with pregnancy are more prevalent in the first and third trimesters (weeks 1 to 14). (weeks 27 to childbirth). Once your baby is born, you can still experience some sweating while your hormones return to their pre-pregnancy levels.

5. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

Hormonal changes during your menstrual cycle can also trigger night sweats. Before your menstruation, when you face PMS and PMDD, your estrogen levels drop. Even though it links with irritation and cramps, you may also experience night sweats.  

When should you be worried about night sweats?

If you experience night sweats that keep you from sleeping or have them along with other symptoms, make an appointment with your healthcare professional. Menopause is probably the cause if you're close to 50 and wake up with chills and sweats. In addition to other symptoms, experiencing night sweats can be a sign of something severe. 

But only your doctor can provide a conclusive diagnosis. Your GP or healthcare professional  can recommend remedies to help once they've figured out the problem.

Do menopause-related night sweats ever end?

Most women stop experiencing night sweats a few years after menopause begins. Occasionally, though, they do not go away. Even night sweats that last far into postmenopause (the phase following menopause) usually go better with time.

What infections can cause night sweats?

Night sweats can also be caused by tuberculosis. Furthermore, colds, the flu, COVID-19, HIV, and several bacterial illnesses are linked to night sweats (osteomyelitis and pyogenic abscess, endocarditis).

What cancers can cause night sweats?

Leukemia and lymphoma can both cause night sweats as a symptom. Other signs and symptoms, such as fever and exhaustion, are also present when cancer produces night sweats. 

How to get rid of night sweats and get proper sleep?

The best way to treat night sweats will vary depending on the patient and should always be under medical supervision. Changes in environment and behavior, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and medication are potential therapeutic options.

1. Changes to your environment

Starting with simple modifications that can reduce the frequency and intensity of night sweats is a common treatment strategy, especially those caused by menopause. This can include changes to your sleeping environment.

1. Try sleeping in a cooler bedroom:

A warmer bedroom is not the primary cause of night sweats but can facilitate or trigger them. Instead, try sleeping in a cooler room. Lowering the thermostat during the night can prevent heat from accumulating around your body.

2. Replace your mattress:

Replacing your mattress is a good idea because some mattresses are more likely to trap heat than others, particularly if they conform tightly and impede airflow. A cooling mattress can help you stay cool all night by preventing heat retention. A mattress that relieves pressure points and allows for plenty of airflows may help ease the symptoms of menopause. You should get a cooling mattress pad or topper if you don't want to replace your mattress.

3. Purchase new bedding:

Consider switching up your bedConsider the current mattress. Sheets that are thin and porous can aid in wicking away moisture. A lightweight quilt may be preferred over a thick duvet or comforter.

4. Dress in breathable clothes:

It is advisable to wear light, loose-fitting clothing made of breathable and airy materials because tight-fitting clothing traps heat. It is simpler to modify to maintain a comfortable temperature when dressed in layers.

2. Changes to your lifestyle

To enhance your general health and sleep, consider making adjustments to your everyday routine in addition to your sleeping environment. That includes:

• Avoiding spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol

• Drinking cold water

• Maintaining healthy weight

• Utilizing relaxation techniques

Other treatments for night sweats

Medication and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) are additional therapies for night sweats.

According to studies, cognitive behavioral therapy for hot flashes and night sweats in menopausal women can lessen the frequency of these symptoms while enhancing mood and quality of life. CBT is compatible with them when paired with other methods, such as behavior modification, and probably has the best impact on night sweats. 

Night sweats can be reduced by various medications, most notably hormone treatments, but these medications can have serious side effects. A doctor is the best person to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of any particular drug. Speak with your doctor for therapy suggestions and modifications to your current drugs.