Night sweats, also known as sleep hyperhidrosis, refer to excessive sweating during sleep that soaks your bedding or nightclothes. They are more intense than the occasional sweating you might experience when your room is too warm or when sleeping under too heavy of a blanket. While night sweats can sometimes result from external factors like bedding, room temperature, or certain types of mattresses, they often stem from a variety of underlying causes.

1. Hormonal Imbalances

Hormonal changes are among the most common causes of night sweats. This is especially true for women going through menopause or perimenopause. Fluctuating estrogen levels can cause hot flashes, which may occur at night and lead to excessive sweating. Hormonal imbalances can also affect men, particularly if there are issues with testosterone levels or during andropause, the male equivalent of menopause.

In addition to menopause and andropause, other conditions that affect hormones, such as hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), can also cause night sweats. The thyroid gland controls your metabolism, and an overactive thyroid can increase body temperature, causing you to sweat more, especially at night.

2. Infections

Infections are another significant cause of night sweats. Some infections can trigger the body’s immune response, leading to fever and night sweats. Common infections that may cause night sweats include:

• Tuberculosis: This bacterial infection is known to cause night sweats.
• Endocarditis: An infection of the heart valves.
• Osteomyelitis: A bone infection that can lead to fever and sweating.
• HIV/AIDS: Night sweats can be an early sign of HIV infection or a symptom of related infections.

It is important to note that night sweats resulting from an infection are usually accompanied by other symptoms like fever, chills, or a feeling of overall malaise.

3. Medications

Certain medications are known to cause night sweats as a side effect. These include:

• Antidepressants: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants can affect the brain’s regulation of body temperature, leading to sweating episodes.
• Hormonal treatments: Therapies like estrogen or testosterone supplements may cause night sweats due to fluctuating hormone levels.
• Fever-reducing medications: Drugs like aspirin or acetaminophen, which are designed to reduce fever, may paradoxically cause sweating at night as your body attempts to cool down.

If you are taking any of these medications and experiencing night sweats, consult your doctor to discuss potential alternatives or ways to manage the side effects.

4. Sleep Environment

Your sleep environment can significantly affect your body temperature and lead to night sweats. If your bedroom is too hot or if you’re using thick bedding that doesn’t allow for breathability, you may find yourself waking up sweaty. Mattresses that trap heat, such as traditional memory foam, can also contribute to night sweats.

Opting for a cooling mattress or moisture-wicking bedding can help regulate your body temperature during the night. Products like cooling mattress pads, breathable sheets, or comforters made from materials like Tencel lyocell or bamboo are designed to promote airflow and reduce overheating during sleep.

5. Anxiety and Stress

Emotional factors, such as anxiety and stress, can trigger night sweats. When you feel anxious, your body’s fight-or-flight response activates, leading to the release of stress hormones like cortisol. This hormonal shift can cause your heart rate to increase and body temperature to rise, potentially leading to sweating during the night.

Chronic stress or anxiety disorders may exacerbate night sweats, as the body remains in a heightened state of alertness even while sleeping. Relaxation techniques, therapy, and mindfulness practices can help manage stress and reduce the occurrence of night sweats linked to emotional factors.

6. Medical Conditions

Various medical conditions, aside from infections, can cause night sweats. Some of these include:

• Cancer: Night sweats are sometimes an early symptom of certain cancers, especially lymphoma. They are usually accompanied by unexplained weight loss and fever.
• Diabetes: Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can cause sweating, including night sweats. People with diabetes who take insulin or oral diabetes medications may experience this.
• Hyperhidrosis: This is a condition characterized by excessive sweating. While it typically affects the palms, feet, or armpits, it can also occur at night.

It is essential to identify the underlying cause of night sweats, as they can sometimes point to more serious health issues.