Night sweats, the experience of excessive sweating during sleep, can have various causes ranging from common to more serious conditions. Common causes include anxiety or stress, infections like flu or COVID-19, hormonal changes such as menopause or low testosterone, certain medications, and sleep disorders like sleep apnea. Other potential causes include hyperthyroidism, some cancers, medication side effects, and excessive alcohol consumption before bedtime. Environmental factors such as a warm sleeping environment can also contribute, but true night sweats are characterized by sweating that occurs even in a cool setting. If night sweats are frequent, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms like fever, weight loss, or pain, it is important to seek medical evaluation to rule out underlying illnesses such as infections, autoimmune disorders, or cancers.
