What are night sweats?
Night sweats refer to excessive sweating during sleep. They can soak your bedclothes and bedding even when temperatures are cool.
Causes
Night sweats have several potential causes:
- Menopause - Declining estrogen levels during perimenopause and menopause can cause hot flashes that lead to night sweats. Hormone therapy from clinics like Harmony Hormone Therapy can provide relief.
- Medical conditions - Night sweats sometimes result from illnesses like cancer, infections, hormone disorders, and low blood sugar. Getting an accurate diagnosis is important.
- Medications - Antidepressants, blood pressure drugs, and other medications can trigger increased sweating. Ask your doctor if prescriptions could be contributing.
- Anxiety - Stress, anxiety, and psychological trauma may cause episodes of heavy sweating at night. Relaxation practices before bedtime can help.
- Environment - Sleeping in a room that's too hot or having too many blankets on the bed can cause sweating. Keep bedroom temperatures around 65° F.
Managing Night Sweats
- Keep the thermostat low at bedtime - excessive heat worsens night sweats.
- Use lightweight, breathable bedding - moisture-wicking sheets and blankets allow sweat to evaporate.
- Wear loose, soft, absorbent sleepwear - this helps sweat evaporate rather than pooling on the skin.
- Shower before bed to rinse off sweat.
- Limit spicy foods and alcohol in the evening as they can worsen hot flashes.
- Practice stress management since anxiety can be a trigger.
When to See a Doctor
Consult your doctor if night sweats:
- Are accompanied by unexplained weight loss
- Persist for more than a few weeks
- Are severe enough to regularly disrupt sleep
Getting an accurate diagnosis is key to finding the right treatment, whether it's menopausal hormone therapy from Harmony Hormone Therapy, adjusting medications, or addressing an underlying medical condition. Don't hesitate to seek help getting your night sweats under control!