Waking up in soaked sheets with sweat-drenched pajamas? You’re not alone—and it could be your body’s way of waving a red flag.
Night sweats happen when your internal thermostat (the hypothalamus) signals the body to cool down—often without an obvious cause like heat or heavy blankets. While occasional sweating from spicy food or a hot room isn’t alarming, persistent night sweats could hint at something deeper.
What could be going on?
Night sweats are linked to a range of health issues, from hormonal shifts to sleep disorders and even infections or medication side effects.
Hormones play a huge role—especially during menopause or low testosterone levels in men. These hormonal dips confuse the hypothalamus, triggering overheating responses like sweating. Treatments like hormone replacement therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) have been shown to reduce symptoms.
Sleep disorders like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can also cause night sweats. When breathing briefly stops during sleep, the body releases stress hormones, spiking temperature and causing sweating. A sleep study or at-home test can help diagnose OSA, which is treatable with CPAP therapy.
Medications (like antidepressants or diabetes drugs), low blood sugar, infections like tuberculosis, and even some cancers can also be culprits—though experts stress not to panic. If night sweats persist for more than two weeks, see a doctor.
Lifestyle fixes help, too: avoid late workouts, opt for lukewarm showers, and set your room to a cool 61–66°F. Choose breathable sleepwear (think Merino wool or linen) and steer clear of memory foam mattresses that trap heat.
Night sweats aren’t just annoying—they’re worth paying attention to. With the right tweaks or a quick check-up, you can get back to dry, restful sleep.
