Night sweating during sleep is common and usually due to reversible factors, but it can also signal an underlying condition. Here are the main possibilities and quick steps to take: Direct causes to check
- Bedroom environment: A room that's too warm, heavy bedding, or wearing too many clothes can trigger night sweats. Try cooling the sleep space to about 60–67°F (15–19°C) and use lighter bedding.
- Hormonal changes: Menopause or perimenopause are frequent culprits in adults assigned female at birth, but hormonal fluctuations can affect others as well.
- Medications and substances: Some antidepressants, diabetes medications, steroids, opioid use, alcohol, and caffeine can cause night sweats in some people.
- Sleep-related breathing or anxiety: Obstructive sleep apnea and elevated stress or anxiety can be associated with night sweats.
- Illness or infection: Fevers from viral or bacterial infections can cause night sweats. Persistent, drenching sweats with fever, feeling unwell, or weight loss warrants medical evaluation.
Less common but important possibilities
- Endocrine or metabolic conditions: Hyperthyroidism, diabetes, or certain tumors can cause night sweats.
- Chronic conditions: Infections such as TB or HIV, cancer, or autoimmune diseases can present with night sweats.
- Alcohol withdrawal and certain medical treatments can also produce night sweats.
Practical steps you can take now
- Adjust sleep environment: Keep the room cool, use breathable sheets, and avoid heavy blankets. Dress in lightweight, moisture-wicking sleepwear.
- Review recent changes: Note any new medications, supplements, or changes in alcohol consumption, caffeine, or smoking.
- Monitor symptoms: If night sweats are frequent, heavy (soaked through clothing or sheets), or accompanied by fever, weight loss, chest pain, or shortness of breath, seek medical care promptly.
- Consider a short health check: If this is new, persistent, or worsening, make an appointment with a primary care clinician. They may review medications, perform a basic exam, and possibly order tests (e.g., thyroid function, complete blood count) to identify common causes.
When to seek urgent care
- Night sweats with high fever, severe chest pain, confusion, fainting, or if you notice a lump or night sweats lasting several weeks without a clear environmental cause.
If you’d like, share a bit more context:
- Your age and sex, whether you’re perimenopausal, starting/stopping any medications, recent illnesses, and any other symptoms (unexplained weight changes, fatigue, night sweats on awakening, etc.). This can help tailor more specific guidance.
