Sweating is a natural mechanism of our body, to cool it in cases of extreme heat. But this symptom can also be indicative of certain pathologies, particularly if it occurs at night. It is therefore important to consult your doctor, if you are concerned, recalls Dr Gérald Kierzek, emergency doctor and medical director of True Medical.
A symptom that we tend to neglect
Our expert is obviously not the only doctor to prescribe this recommendation. In a TikTok video, the doctor called @MrDr_HQ also reminds us that this sign should alert you. “Night sweats are a very important symptom that people tend to overlook.”
he explains, recalling that they could be linked to certain pathologies such as tuberculosis or certain cancers.
What does night sweating look like?
To go further, we interviewed Dr Gérald Kierzek on the subject. “Night sweats are characterized by excessive and sudden sweating that occurs during sleep” first defines the doctor. We therefore see:
- Profuse sweating wetting clothes and sheets;
- A feeling of heat and sometimes fever;
- A possibility of shivering and tremors.
What are the causes?
According to the doctor, the causes are numerous. He notes in particular:
- Stress and anxiety;
- Hormonal disorders, particularly linked to menopause in women;
- Certain underlying diseases, such as lymphomas, certain cancers or even an infection (pulmonary, renal, etc.);
- Side effects of medications;
- Sleep apnea;
- Environmental factors (high temperature in the room or unsuitable clothing for example).
For this last point, it is possible to act by reducing the temperature of the room or by dressing more lightly. What if “despite reducing the temperature or wearing cooler clothing, night sweats persist or are accompanied by other symptoms, consult“concludes the doctor.