Sweating in the night due to poor cooling in the room or wearing blankets is understood and we all suffer from it but night sweats are different. When everything like the room temperature is fine but you end up sweating, it is termed as night sweating. Many people wake up in the middle of the night fully drenched in sweat as if they have just come out of a shower! Once in a blue moon, it is okay and may be due to overworking or extreme tiredness but in most cases, there are medical reasons behind this happening. We have mentioned the major causes of night sweats in this article. If you ever experience this situation, you can interpret the possible reasons behind that.
Overactive Thyroid
Excessive sweating and sensitivity to heat are the main symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Your thyroid gland controls your metabolism, so when it starts producing more hormones, your body becomes hyperactive. Your body temperature increases and you may feel hungry and thirsty, your pulse starts moving fast or your hands start trembling. If along with profuse sweating you happen to experience any of these symptoms, then it indicates that your thyroid gland is ill-functioning and you must consult a doctor.
Low Blood Sugar
Do you have diabetes? If yes, then night sweats may have a connection with your condition. When you check your blood glucose at bedtime, it is stable but it suddenly drops after sleeping. This may be due to your overworked day or late in the evening exercise or eating very late at night. If you use insulin to control your diabetes, then hypoglycemia may be responsible for this condition. Eat something when your glucose lowers down to below 140 mg/dL before bedtime or if it falls in a few hours.
Also Read: Know Everything About Diabetes
Sleep Apnoea
When you are going through this situation, you have any problems while breathing at night. Possibly, your body is not getting oxygen, due to which you start sweating. Every time you start breathing again your muscles have to work twice as much. People who use the CPAP machine to breathe at night often sweat at night.
Also Read: Why Is Sleep Apnoea Known As A Silent Killer?
Acid Reflux
Acute chest pain is making you uncomfortable and you’re not able to lift your body up at night? This is a sign of acid reflux. Not treating stomach problems can make you sweat at night. Eat less food before bed and take a walk post-dinner, if possible. Avoid eating products made from fats, fried and tomatoes to prevent acid reflux. If you experience this frequently, see a doctor immediately.
Medications
Many medications can cause night sweats, including medicines purchased for fever, etc. Older antidepressants such as tricyclic or TCA; taking steroids like venlafaxine and bupropion; cortisone and prednisone and hormone replacement therapy can normally cause night sweats. Medications for glaucoma and dry mouth also stimulate sweat glands. So, if you experience night sweats after taking these medications, ask your doctor to change them.
There are many causes of night sweats that you should know. It is okay to sweat at night but regular episodes of night sweating are concerning.
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