Night sweats, also known as sleep hyperhidrosis, are episodes of profuse sweating that occur during sleep, often leading to the person waking up drenched in sweat.

Night sweats can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition or can result from everyday factors such as a hot room or the use of certain medications. Understanding the causes of night sweats can help determine the necessary course of treatment.

Hormonal Imbalances

One common cause of night sweats is hormonal imbalances, specifically in women experiencing menopause. The changes in estrogen and progesterone levels that occur during menopause can result in hot flashes and night sweats.

Hormonal imbalances in men can also cause night sweats, specifically a decrease in testosterone levels. This can affect the regulation of body temperature, leading to night sweats.

Infections

Some infections can cause night sweats. Tuberculosis is a well-known example, with night sweats often being one of the first symptoms to manifest. HIV/AIDS, endocarditis, and osteomyelitis are other infections that can cause night sweats.

In addition, bacterial infections such as brucellosis and Q fever can also result in night sweats as a symptom.

Medications

Various medications have the potential to cause night sweats as a side effect. Antidepressants, specifically SSRIs, are commonly associated with night sweats.

Hormonal medications, including hormonal contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy, can also lead to night sweats. Other medications that may cause night sweats include blood pressure medications, antipyretics, and diabetes medications.

Neurological Conditions

Some neurological conditions can cause night sweats. Autonomic neuropathy is a condition that affects the autonomic nervous system, which controls body functions such as heart rate and sweating.

Damage to this system can result in excessive sweating, including night sweats. Parkinson’s disease can also cause night sweats, specifically during the late stages of the disease.

Cancers

Some cancers can cause night sweats as a symptom. Specifically, lymphoma and leukemia are two types of cancer that can result in night sweats.

The exact cause of night sweats from cancer is unknown, but it may be related to the body’s immune response to cancer cells. If night sweats occur in conjunction with other symptoms such as unexplained weight loss and fatigue, it is important to speak with a medical professional.

Psychological Factors

Psychological factors can also play a role in night sweats. Anxiety and stress can cause the body to release adrenaline, which raises body temperature and can result in sweating. Nightmares and other sleep disturbances can also cause night sweats.

If psychological factors are suspected as the cause of night sweats, it may be necessary to speak with a mental health professional.

Substance Use

Substance use, including alcohol and drug use, can cause night sweats. Alcohol can cause the body to overheat, leading to excessive sweating during sleep. Opioid use, specifically withdrawal from opioids, can also cause night sweats.

If substance use is suspected as the cause of night sweats, it may be necessary to seek medical assistance to address the issue.

Other Causes

In addition to the aforementioned causes, night sweats can also result from everyday factors such as a hot environment or over-bundling in blankets.

Sleep apnea, a sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep, can also lead to night sweats. It is important to speak with a medical professional if night sweats occur regularly and are accompanied by other symptoms.