Night sweats, also known as sleep hyperhidrosis, is a condition where an individual experiences excessive sweating during sleep. This condition can be caused by a variety of factors, including underlying medical conditions, medications, and lifestyle factors.
Causes:
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Medical conditions: Night sweats can be caused by medical conditions such as menopause, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, infections like tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, lymphoma, leukemia, and other autoimmune disorders.
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Medications: Certain medications like antidepressants, hormone therapy drugs, blood pressure medications, and corticosteroids can cause night sweats as a side effect.
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Lifestyle factors: Consumption of alcohol, spicy food, and caffeine can also lead to night sweats. Additionally, wearing tight-fitting clothes or sleeping in a warm environment can also cause this condition.
dosha:
In Ayurveda, excessive sweating is associated with the Pitta dosha. Pitta is one of the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) that are believed to govern the body’s physiological and psychological functions. Excessive sweating is a Pitta imbalance, which can be corrected by balancing the Pitta dosha through dietary and lifestyle changes.
Without treatment
night sweats can be dangerous as they can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and other complications. Some common symptoms of night sweats include:
symptoms
- Excessive sweating during sleep
- Waking up feeling cold and clammy
- Interrupted sleep
- Fatigue
- Chills
- Rapid heartbeat
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Mood swings
- Fever
Here are some precautions one can take to alleviate the symptoms of night sweats:
- Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing to bed
- Sleep in a cool, well-ventilated room
- Avoid consuming alcohol, caffeine, and spicy foods before bedtime
- Stay hydrated throughout the day
- Maintain a healthy diet that includes fresh fruits and vegetables
- Practice stress-relieving techniques like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing
- Avoid smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke
- Regular exercise can help alleviate night sweats
- Take a cool shower before bedtime
- Consult with a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
WHO Facts:
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), night sweats can be a symptom of several diseases, including tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS. WHO recommends that individuals with persistent night sweats seek medical attention to rule out underlying medical conditions.
In conclusion, night sweats can be caused by a variety of factors, including underlying medical conditions, medications, and lifestyle factors. It is important to take precautions to alleviate the symptoms and seek medical attention if symptoms persist.