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If you’re suffering from night sweats, here’s what causes them

If you're a victim of night sweats, you probably wonder what's causing them. To find out the causes of night sweats stay here and read on.
Night sweats can be a sign of health problems like cancer. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Aayushi Gupta Published: 16 Mar 2022, 10:30 am IST
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Do you find yourself sweating excessively at night? If so, you’re not alone in this. Excessive sweating at night is actually a common complaint for women of all age groups. Although night sweats or hot flashes are more likely to occur during menopause, there are other causes of night sweats that can be experienced at any age.

What are night sweats?

Most people experience variations in the body temperature, especially when they sleep at night. This can lead to sweating. Night sweating is excessive perspiration that happens while you’re sleeping. In fact, severe night sweats can even drench sleepwear and sheets. It can reduce the quality of sleep and can make it difficult for you to sleep.

Night sweats can be due to underlying health condition. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

HealthShots spoke to Dr Veena Aurangabadwala, Gynaecologist, Zen Multispeciality Hospital, Chembur, to understand the causes of this condition.

Read the causes of night sweats, according to Dr Aurangabadwala:

1. Stress

Did you know that stress can induce nighttime sweating? Yes, that’s right! If you are stressed, the brain and body will be overactive and that can lead to sweating at night.

2. Alcohol consumption

This can lead to nighttime sweating. Alcohol will relax the airways, and you will not be able to breathe properly. Are you aware that alcohol is a stimulant that increases heart rate. Moreover, this increases body temperature and you will sweat. Try to cut down on alcohol.

3. Taking medication

There are various medications that can lead to constant nighttime sweating. Antidepressants, anti-retrovirals, hormone therapy drugs, and even hypertension drugs that you take will make you sweat and steal your sleep at night.

4. Various medical conditions

You will be shocked to know that autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, leukemia, lymphoma, prostate cancer, depression, heart disease, obesity, tuberculosis, or even obstructive sleep apnea can lead to nighttime sweating. You will profusely sweat and have to consult the doctor.

5. Menopause

If you are nearing menopause, you may sweat at night. It is the best idea to speak to the doctor and then only take medication. Do not take any medication on your own as doing so can lead to serious complications.

Hot flashes or night sweats are common during menopause. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

So what can you do to get rid of night sweats and to get a good night’s sleep?

Follow these tips to avoid night sweats:

* Wear breathable and lightweight clothes at night to keep your body’s temperature cool.
* Keep cool water nearby so if night sweats hit you can cool down your body by drinking it.
* Keep your room temperature cool so that you can sleep nicely. This will also reduce the chances of night sweats
* Always choose cotton bed sheets to avoid night sweats because certain fabrics can trigger them.
* If night sweats hit you, practice breathing slowly and deeply to calm down yourself.

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PERSONALISE NOW

A good night’s sleep is important, so you can not afford anything to disrupt your sleep. By keeping these tips in mind you can avoid night sweats. But if you’re still experiencing night sweats, it is always good to talk to your doctor to rule out serious problems.

Aayushi Gupta

Aayushi Gupta is a health writer with a special interest in trends related to diet, fitness, beauty and intimate health. With around 2 years of experience in the wellness industry, she is connected to leading experts and doctors to provide our readers with factually correct information. ...Read More

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