Picture this: you’re in the middle of a dream and suddenly wake up – drenched in sweat! Night sweats can be distracting, but understanding the causes and how to deal with them can help you get a good night’s sleep. Read on to learn about all the causes of night sweats and what you can do to get a comfortable, restful night’s sleep.

Are night sweats normal?

No one really talks about night sweats and you may be wondering, 'Is night sweats normal?'' The answer is yes! Changes in body temperature during sleep are completely normal and most cases of night sweats are harmless and can be improved by making some changes to your nighttime routine. However, if you wake up sweating at night, this is not only uncomfortable but can also be a symptom of another problem.

How much sweating is considered night sweats?

Night sweats are defined as “excessive sweating during sleep that occurs repeatedly and results in wetting clothing or bed linens.” So if you wake up and need to change your clothes or bed linens due to excessive sweating, you may have night sweats.

What causes night sweats?

Night sweats, medically known as nocturnal hyperhidrosis, occur when your body sweats excessively while you sleep, leading to wet sheets and restless sleep. While the specific causes can vary, certain physiological factors often play a role. The most common causes are:

Medications and health conditions

Certain medications and health conditions can cause night sweats. Medications that affect the sweat glands, nervous system and body temperature, such as antidepressants or hormone therapy, can have night sweats as a side effect. There are also some health conditions that can cause you to sweat, such as hyperthyroidism or a fever when your body is fighting an illness. It can even be genetic. If you find yourself sweating even when it's cold or for no reason, such as during or after exercise, you may have 'idiopathic hyperhidrosis'. This type of excessive sweating is often genetic and can get worse when you're stressed.

Menopause and hormonal changes.

One of the main culprits of night sweats is hormonal changes. Night sweats are especially common during perimenopause and menopause, as hormonal changes can cause the hypothalamus (the part of the brain that regulates body temperature) to struggle to control its temperature, leading to hot flashes, which then cause the body to sweat more to cool down.

Stress and anxiety

The demands of modern life often lead to stress and anxiety, which can even manifest in your dreams. Night sweats may be your body's way of coping with the stress and fatigue you've experienced during the day while you sleep.

Sleep environment

The temperature, humidity, and airflow in your bedroom can significantly affect your chances of experiencing night sweats. If your bedroom is too warm or if you wear thick pajamas, your body may overheat, leading to sweating.

Wine and food

Although no specific foods have been linked to night sweats, consuming alcohol or spicy foods before bed may contribute to night sweats by increasing body temperature and causing sweating.

How to fight night sweats?

There are several strategies you can use to help combat or prevent night sweats:

• Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods before bed as they can increase body temperature and cause sweating.
• Check your bedroom temperature or if you sleep with heavy sheets or pajamas, experiment to create the perfect sleep environment for you.
• Open windows or use fans during warmer months to improve airflow.

How are night sweats treated?

If your night sweats are caused by a medical condition, healthcare professionals can provide treatment and advice. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, so be sure to see your doctor if you have any concerns.

What can I do at home to reduce night sweats?

Breathable bedding: It’s time to rethink your bedding choices. Swap out heavy sheets for something more breathable, like cotton or linen. These fabrics allow your skin to breathe, preventing heat buildup. You can also treat yourself to a cooling mattress pad, mattress topper, or pillow designed to regulate body temperature.

Breathable clothing: Your sleepwear is important in the fight against night sweats. Choose lightweight, moisture-wicking sleepwear to help keep you cool while you sleep.

Check the thermostat: Check the room temperature to find the best sleeping temperature for you.

Apply a small amount of antiperspirant deodorant: Apply a small amount of antiperspirant deodorant to sweaty areas before bed. In fact, applying antiperspirant deodorant at night may even help you sweat less the next day. If you sweat a lot, a A good antiperspirant deodorant can help you get back to sleep.

We recommend trying Roll On Deodorant Breeze Perfect Beauty 50ml for Women or Roll On Deodorant Breeze Men Fresh Protection 50ml for Men. Both are designed to provide 48h antiperspirant and deodorant protection.

What are night sweats a warning sign of and when should I worry?

Most people who suffer from excessive night sweats worry that they are a warning sign of a more serious problem. Most of the time, night sweats can be resolved by adjusting the room temperature or removing some of the thick, stuffy bedding. However, if the night sweats are new and severe enough to wake you up and require you to change your clothes and bedding, it may be a sign of a medical condition. If night sweats are accompanied by fever, loss of appetite, and weight loss, you should see a doctor. So now you have all the information you need about what causes night sweats. And now you know the best ways to get rid of them quickly, so you can sleep soundly again. Sweating is normal and feeling healthy is the norm!