Night sweats: recognizing hidden health problems

Waking up in the middle of the night with wet sheets and sticky skin is an unpleasant experience that many people are familiar with. Night sweats, or hyperhidrosis, may seem like a harmless problem caused by hot weather or stress. But what if it's more than just discomfort? What if waking up in a cold sweat every night is a signal from the body about serious illnesses that require attention? Together with Mikhail Kutushov, a toxicologist and candidate of medical sciences, we will analyze what diseases this symptom may indicate and how to recognize the warning signals of your body in time.

Physiological causes of night sweats

“Night sweats can be caused by several physiological factors,” explains Mikhail Kutushov. "Stress and hormonal changes often play a key role in this process." For example, in women, night sweats may be associated with the menstrual cycle, pregnancy or menopause. Spicy, fatty foods and alcohol can also cause night sweats and disrupt sleep. Additionally, some medications, including antidepressants, may have this symptom as a side effect. Even hot conditions in the bedroom can trigger the body to start sweating to cool itself.

Pathological causes of night sweats

Night sweats can be more than just a temporary inconvenience, but a symptom of serious illness. Among them:

Infectious diseases: Tuberculosis, HIV, malaria, influenza and ARVI can lead to night sweats.
Cancers: Blood cancers, lymphomas, breast cancer, prostate cancer and lung cancer are often accompanied by night sweats due to increased hormone production or metabolic changes.
Endocrine disorders: Hyperthyroidism and diabetes mellitus can cause night sweats due to metabolic disorders.
Neurological diseases: Neuropathy, meningitis and encephalitis may also cause this symptom.
Cardiovascular diseases: Diseases of the heart and blood vessels can manifest themselves in the form of night sweats.
When should you see a doctor?

If night sweats are accompanied by the following symptoms, it is important not to delay visiting your doctor:

• Weight loss
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Chest pain
• Dyspnea
• Cough
• Changes in the menstrual cycle
• Cardiopalmus
• The appearance of nodes or tumors

Treatment and prevention of night sweats

Treatment for night sweats directly depends on the cause of this symptom. “In some cases, it is enough to change your lifestyle,” notes Mikhail Kutushov. This may include adjustments to your sleep, diet, and physical activity patterns. In other cases, medication prescribed by a specialist may be required.

To prevent night sweats, it is important to create comfortable sleeping conditions. Avoid drinking alcohol* and spicy foods before bed. Regular exercise and proper nutrition also play an important role in preventing this unpleasant symptom.

Night sweats are a signal from the body that can indicate various health problems. If you notice this symptom, do not ignore it. Consult your doctor to determine the cause and prescribe appropriate treatment. Remember that timely diagnosis and treatment can prevent the development of serious diseases. Listen to your body and take care of your health!

*Drinking alcohol is harmful to your health!