Night sweats, also known as nocturnal hyperhidrosis, can be described as excessive sweating during sleep that is not related to the surrounding temperature. This condition can be uncomfortable, disruptive, and concerning.

While occasional night sweats are usually harmless and a natural part of the body’s temperature regulation, persistent or severe night sweats could be an indication of an underlying health issue. In this article, we will explore seven health risks that are commonly associated with night sweats and the potential causes behind them.

1. Menopause

One of the leading causes of night sweats in women is menopause. The hormonal changes that accompany menopause can often disrupt the body’s natural thermoregulatory processes, leading to increased sweating during sleep.

Estrogen fluctuations are primarily responsible for triggering night sweats in menopausal women. Although night sweats are incredibly common during this stage, if they persist for an extended period or severely impact daily life, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

2. Infections

Night sweats can also be a symptom of several types of infections, including bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.

Certain infections, such as HIV, tuberculosis, endocarditis (heart valve inflammation), and osteomyelitis (bone infection), are known to cause excessive nighttime sweating. If night sweats are accompanied by other symptoms like fever, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or persistent cough, it is crucial to seek medical attention to identify and treat the underlying infection.

3. Cancer

Night sweats can be a potential warning sign of certain types of cancer, particularly lymphoma. Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, and night sweats are a classic symptom, especially in Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

In addition to night sweats, other signs of lymphoma may include swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and frequent infections. If night sweats persist, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and appropriate diagnostic tests if deemed necessary.

4. Hormonal Disorders

Various hormonal disorders, such as hyperthyroidism and carcinoid syndrome, can cause night sweats.

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces excessive thyroid hormones, leading to symptoms like increased metabolism, weight loss, anxiety, and night sweats. Carcinoid syndrome is a rare condition that occurs due to certain tumors releasing chemicals into the bloodstream, causing symptoms like flushing, diarrhea, and night sweats.

If night sweats are accompanied by other hormonal symptoms, it is essential to consult an endocrinologist for a comprehensive evaluation.

5. Medications

Certain medications are known to trigger night sweats as a side effect. Antidepressants, antipyretics (fever-reducing drugs), hormone-blocking agents, and even some over-the-counter medications can cause night sweats in some individuals.

If night sweats coincide with starting a new medication, it is advisable to consult the prescribing healthcare professional to evaluate whether the drug could be causing this symptom and discuss potential alternative options.

6. Anxiety and Stress

Excessive anxiety and stress can also contribute to night sweats. When the body is under significant emotional strain, it triggers a “fight or flight” response, leading to increased heart rate, perspiration, and overall discomfort.

Anxiety-related night sweats are often accompanied by other symptoms like restlessness, insomnia, palpitations, and racing thoughts. If persistent anxiety and night sweats are affecting daily life, it is recommended to seek therapy or counseling to address the underlying causes and develop coping mechanisms.

7. Sleep Disorders

Various sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea and sleep hyperhidrosis, can result in night sweats.

In obstructive sleep apnea, the airway becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep, leading to disrupted breathing patterns and night sweats. Sleep hyperhidrosis, on the other hand, is a condition characterized by excessive sweating during sleep unrelated to body temperature regulation.

Both conditions require professional evaluation and treatment by a sleep specialist to alleviate the symptoms and improve sleep quality.