When it is ‘time to see a health care provider’ about sweating at night time
Sweating is a pure bodily perform that removes salt-based fluid from the sweat glands.
Its foremost function is to regulate the physique’s temperature, which is why we sweat extra when scorching.
Although that is due to this fact a typical incidence each within the day and at night time throughout the summer season months, it could possibly be signalling one thing sinister.
Sleep knowledgeable Andrea Strand, from Eachnight Mattresses, spoke with Express.co.uk about why you sweat throughout sleep and the way to stop and deal with it.
She mentioned: “Sweating during sleep is a common occurrence and happens for mainly two reasons.
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“The first is your environment. Whilst it’s enjoyable to snuggle under a heavy blanket or wear warm pyjamas, these things can often lead to waking up in the middle of the night covered in sweat.
“Another reason is underlying medical issues.
“The Mayo Clinic has listed numerous factors that can contribute to those unwanted night sweats, including hormone disorders, sleep apnoea, anxiety and viral infections to name but a few.”
When to talk to your physician
Ms Strand defined: “If your night sweats get to the point that you begin to experience daytime fatigue as a result of lost sleep from sweating, it’s time to see a doctor.
“If you have been sweating consistently for two weeks or more with no signs of it getting better, that’s also when you should consider seeking professional help.”
According to the Mayo Clinic, some medical causes of night time sweats can embody:
- Alcohol and/or substance use dysfunction
- Anxiety problems
- Autoimmune problems
- Endocarditis (an an infection of the inside lining of the center)
- HIV/AIDS
- Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma
- Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
- Leukaemia
- Myelofibrosis (a bone marrow dysfunction)
- Sleep problems (equivalent to obstructive sleep apnoea)
- Stroke
- Tuberculosis.
It warns: “Causes shown here are commonly associated with this symptom.
“Work with your doctor or other health care professional for an accurate diagnosis.”
Ways to stop night time sweats
If your night time sweats aren’t linked to a medical situation there are methods to assist stop it taking place.
“Avoid eating a large meal at least two to three hours before sleeping,” Ms Strand mentioned.
“This means your digestive system won’t be working after you fall asleep, allowing your body to rest more.
“Avoiding spicy foods and caffeine at night can also be a great way to beat the night-time sweats.
“Caffeine is a stimulant and can increase your heart rate, leading to a raise in blood pressure which can activate sweat glands.”
Taking management of your stress ranges may additionally assist in case you are affected by night time sweats.
Ms Strand added: “Whether it is stress due to recurring bad dreams, or general anxiety, stress is a hormonal issue which can lead to sweating.
“Doing activities such as yoga and meditation before bedtime is a great way to reduce stress and calm the mind, however if stress persists, seek professional help.”