Sweating is a completely normal physiological process, this is how the body regulates its temperature. It often occurs when there is a sudden change in temperature, such as in a sauna or while doing sports. But waking up sweating at night is something else entirely. This is called nocturnal hyperhidrosis. According to one study, 41% of people claim to experience night sweats.

While this condition is usually harmless (mainly affects sleep quality), it can sometimes give us clues about other underlying health problems and diseases we are not aware of.

Why? Excessive sweating during sleep and at night. It usually manifests itself on the palms, soles, armpits or trunk. The main cause is body thermoregulation, which usually occurs on hot nights. But it is something to keep in mind as there may be other causes such as metabolic, cardiorespiratory diseases and even some types of cancer.

Why is it important to control it? Because it might just not be an overheated room, too many blankets, or a heat wave. President of the International Hyperhidrosis Society, Dr. Dee Anna Glaser explained that “experiencing night sweats can be dangerous and should not be ignored.” As they explained from the institution, many different diseases can cause night sweats.

These include: infections (tuberculosis, flu, and other illnesses including fever can cause night sweats); hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar), gastroesophageal reflux disease (sweating is a common feature although it often causes heartburn); obstructive sleep apnea (restricts breathing); autoimmune disease (such as rheumatoid arthritis and giant cell arteritis); neurological disorders (strokes and autonomic neuropathy); and cancer: Night sweats can also be an early sign of cancer, especially lymphoma or leukemia.

Other common causes. As with menopause and perimenopause, hormonal changes can happen: significant changes in the body’s production of the hormones estrogen and progesterone are a major factor in hot flashes. Other hormonal changes in women (such as those that occur during puberty and pregnancy) can also cause night sweats. On the other hand: Decreases in testosterone in men also cause them.

Medicines. These are a common cause of night sweats. The culprit is usually antidepressants (8% to 22% of people who take them experience night sweats). Even medications taken to reduce fever (such as acetaminophen) can cause sweating. The same is true for cortisone, prednisone, and prednisolone. And on hormone therapy: According to this 2017 study, trans people often have trouble sleeping.

Finally, some research suggests a link between excessive sweating and social anxiety disorder, and some experts believe that a problem with the central nervous system may underlie both problems. Stress, caffeine use, or drug use can also increase your risk of sweating in the middle of the night.

Image: Pexels