While heat can be a major source of discomfort when trying to sleep, experts warn that night sweats should not be ignored, especially if they persist for a long time. Sleep expert Andrea Strand mentioned that night sweating can occur due to environmental factors or the presence of underlying medical issues. She explained that the ideal temperature for sleeping should range between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius. However, this is not always possible for some individuals. According to Strand, investing in a highly breathable mattress or switching to lighter bedding can help alleviate the problem.
Before assuming you have a serious health issue, Andrea, who works with the website Everynight.com, suggested avoiding large meals two to three hours before bedtime. "This means your digestive system won't be working after you fall asleep, allowing your body to rest more. Avoiding spicy foods and caffeine at night can also be a great way to combat night sweats." Strand noted that caffeine is a stimulant and can increase heart rates, leading to higher blood pressure that can activate sweat glands.
She explained that stress and anxiety can also cause night sweating, and engaging in activities like yoga and meditation before bed may help. Strand added, "If you have tried these tips and your night sweating persists, and you start to feel fatigued during the day due to lack of sleep, it may be time to see a doctor. That’s because night sweats can actually be caused by a number of diseases."
When "Omicron" first emerged, despite being a milder illness, many people complained of night sweats to the extent that their bed sheets and sleepwear became damp, or even wet, even if the room they were sleeping in was cool. Certain medications can also cause night sweating, such as antidepressants and hormonal treatments, as well as drugs used to treat opioid addiction, like methadone and medications for low blood sugar.
Experts from the Mayo Clinic also noted that night sweats can be a sign of a range of life-threatening diseases, including:
- Carcinoid tumors
- Endocarditis (infection of the inner lining of the heart)
- HIV/AIDS
- Lymphoma
- Leukemia
- Myelofibrosis (bone marrow cancer)
- Hodgkin's lymphoma
- Stroke
Night sweats can also be due to alcohol use disorders, as well as drug addiction. When you stop consuming alcohol and drugs, you may experience sweating and shaking. Experts explained: "Alcohol withdrawal can occur when alcohol is consumed heavily and for a long time, then is significantly reduced or stopped. This can happen within several hours to four or five days after that. Signs and symptoms include sweating, rapid heart rate, hand tremors, sleep problems, nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, insomnia, agitation, anxiety, and occasional seizures. The symptoms can be severe enough to impair your ability to function or to be in social situations."
While the aforementioned diseases are the most life-threatening, night sweats are often due to a less serious condition. It is always important to see a doctor if you are concerned.
