Night sweats are a symptom of many conditions and often requires medical testing to determine the correct diagnosis and treatment options. Common illnesses, as well as medications, illegal drugs and serious disorders can cause night sweats. Night sweats can range in frequency and severity and can occur in conjunction with other symptoms. Treating the underlying condition can help eliminate or minimize these uncomfortable episodes.
Definition
Night sweats, also known as nocturnal hyperhidrosis, occur during sleep and can cause you to perspire heavily enough to soak your nightclothes and bedding. The discomfort of an episode may wake you from your sleep.
Health Conditions
According to the Mayo Clinic website, many people experience night sweats at one time or another and most don't signify the presence of a medical problem. Your doctor can rule out certain medical conditions that may cause night sweats, including hyperthyroidism, leukemia, bacterial infections, stroke and tuberculosis. Mononucleosis, an infectious virus, can also cause episodes of nighttime sweating.
Other Causes
Some medications, such as antidepressants and hormone therapy, can cause night sweats, according to the Mayo Clinic. Alcohol and heroin may also induce night sweats. Common causes of these episodes include menopause, anxiety, overheated bedrooms or too many blankets on the bed. Pregnancy, as well as other hormonal fluctuations, can cause some women to experience occasional episodes of night sweats.
Prevention
While medical conditions require professional treatment to resolve the uncomfortable symptom of night sweats, preventative measures may eliminate some causes of discomfort. Breastcancer.org recommends reducing your intake of alcohol and caffeine, as well as limiting your consumption of spicy foods. Try sipping on cool drinks before bedtime and wearing cotton nightclothes that don't trap in heat. Creating good air circulation, as well as practicing deep breathing, can help eliminate some cases of night sweats, according to Breastcancer.org.
Treatment
Your doctor may recommend a physical examination, as well as various types of medical testing to help determine the cause of your night sweats. Diagnosing and treating existing health conditions, such as mononucleosis and obstructive sleep apnea, may help resolve night sweats. Prescription medications may help treat common causes of night sweats, such as anxiety and menopause. Your doctor may want to change any medications that include night sweats as a side effect.
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