Night Sweating: Common Causes and Underlying Conditions
Night sweating (excessive sweating during sleep) can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from benign lifestyle influences to serious medical conditions. Below are the primary causes categorized for clarity:
1. Environmental and Lifestyle Factors
Hot sleeping environment (e.g., warm room, heavy blankets, memory foam mattresses)
Wearing tight or non-breathable clothing
Consumption of spicy foods, caffeine, or alcohol before bed
Exercise close to bedtime
2. Hormonal Causes
Menopause & Perimenopause:
Most common cause in women over 40
Due to fluctuating estrogen levels leading to hot flashes and night sweats
Andropause (Male Hormone Decline):
Lower testosterone levels in aging men can sometimes contribute
Thyroid disorders:
Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) increases metabolism, leading to sweating
Diabetes & Hypoglycemia:
Low blood sugar (nocturnal hypoglycemia), common in diabetics, triggers sweating
3. Infections & Immune System Disorders
Tuberculosis (TB) A classic cause of night sweats
HIV/AIDS Associated with chronic night sweats due to immune activation
Endocarditis (heart valve infection)
Osteomyelitis (bone infection)
Abscesses or other bacterial infections
4. Cancers
Lymphomas (Hodgkin’s & non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma) One of the most serious causes of persistent night sweats, often accompanied by unexplained weight loss and fever
Leukemia Can also cause night sweating due to immune dysfunction
5. Neurological Conditions
Autonomic dysregulation:
Conditions like autonomic neuropathy or stroke can lead to abnormal sweating
Parkinson’s disease Can cause excessive sweating due to nervous system dysfunction
6. Medications & Substance Use
Antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, and TCAs) Common cause due to serotonin effects on temperature regulation
Pain relievers (aspirin, acetaminophen, NSAIDs) Can trigger sweating as they affect body temperature
Steroids (prednisone, cortisone) Affect metabolism and heat regulation
Opioids and withdrawal from drugs/alcohol
7. Other Conditions
GERD (acid reflux): Can be associated with night sweats
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA): Episodes of apnea can trigger excessive sweating
Anxiety and Panic Disorders: Nocturnal panic attacks can cause sweating
When to See a Doctor?
Seek medical attention if night sweats are:
Persistent and unexplained
Accompanied by fever, weight loss, or enlarged lymph nodes
Interfering with sleep quality
Associated with other systemic symptoms (e.g., fatigue, cough, pain, or weakness)
Conclusion
Night sweating can be benign (due to environment or lifestyle) or a sign of serious medical conditions (e.g., infections, cancer, or hormonal disorders). Identifying additional symptoms and risk factors helps determine the underlying cause. If concerned, consulting a doctor for evaluation is advisable.
