What are night sweats?
Night sweats refer to excessive sweating during sleep. They can leave your bedding or pajamas soaked, even though the room temperature is cool.
What causes night sweats?
There are several potential causes of night sweats including:
- Infections - Infections that cause fever or flu-like symptoms often lead to night sweats. Infections can range from basic upper respiratory infections to more serious conditions.
- Medications - Certain medications like antidepressants, diabetes drugs, and hormone-based therapies can provoke sweating at night.
- Cancers - Night sweats are an early symptom with lymphomas and leukemias. They can also occur with endocrine tumors.
- Idiopathic causes - Sometimes the trigger is unknown even after medical evaluation. These are dubbed idiopathic night sweats.
Managing night sweats
If night sweats are problematic, see your doctor for an evaluation. They can help determine if there is an underlying cause that needs treatment. Some general tips include:
- Sleep in a cool, well-ventilated room
- Use lightweight, absorbent bedding and sleepwear
- Avoid spicy foods and alcohol before bedtime
- Exercise regularly to improve temperature regulation
- Try relaxation techniques to reduce stress
- Consider hormone therapy if related to menopause or andropause
At Balance Hormone Clinic, we specialize in the diagnosis and management of hormone conditions leading to disruptive symptoms like night sweats. Contact us today to learn more about our personalized programs!
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