Night sweats, also known as nocturnal hyperhidrosis, are a common problem in which people sweat excessively at night, even when the ambient temperature is cool. It can have several causes, including:
Hormonal fluctuations: Night sweats can be caused by hormonal changes, such as those during menopause, which disrupt the hormone balance in the body.
Medication use: Some medications, such as antidepressants and hormone therapy, can cause night sweats as a side effect.
Infections: Certain infections, such as tuberculosis and HIV, can cause night sweats.
Sleep Apnea: Sleep apnea can cause night sweats because it disrupts breathing during sleep and forces the body to work harder to breathe.
Neurological disorders: Some neurological disorders, such as autonomic dysfunction, can cause night sweats
If you suffer from night sweats, there are several steps you can take to reduce them:
Keep the bedroom cool: Keep the temperature in the bedroom cool and comfortable, use light blankets and avoid excessive clothing or blankets.
Avoid stimulants: Avoid stimulants such as caffeine and alcohol, especially before bedtime.
Choose the right clothing: Wear breathable clothing made from natural fibers such as cotton to promote airflow and sweat evaporation. You can opt for anti-sweat underwear that collects sweat in a pad.
Relaxation exercises: Relaxation exercises such as yoga and meditation can help reduce stress and anxiety, which can cause or worsen night sweats.
Consult a doctor: If night sweats persist and seriously impact the quality of your sleep, consult a doctor. Depending on the cause, the doctor may prescribe medication, such as hormone therapy or antidepressants, or recommend other treatments.
It is important to remember that night sweats may be a symptom of an underlying medical condition and it is important to seek professional medical advice if the problem persists or worsens.
