Why do I sweat in my sleep?

Why do I sweat in my sleep? | Impact of sweating in sleep | How to stop | Is it normal? 

For many people, crawling into a freshly-made bed with cool, crisp sheets at bedtime is the best part of the day. But what if you wake up in a sweat? That’s not quite so pleasant. What causes you to sweat in your sleep? Sometimes sweating in your sleep can be due to your sleeping environment. Or, it can be due to menopause, which is one of the most common reasons for night sweats. Other medical conditions like hyperthyroidism or sleep apnea can cause night sweats, too. The good news is that there are solutions to this problem, depending on the cause. Continue reading to learn more about sweating in your sleep and what you can do about it. 

Why do I sweat in my sleep?

Sweating is a normal process associated with regulating your core body temperature. When you sleep, a small amount of sweat occasionally is generally not a concern, but true night sweats are defined as “severe hot flashes occurring at night that can drench sleepwear and sheets.” Night sweats can affect your sleeping and make you uncomfortable. Let’s talk about some of the causes of night sweats. 

Menopause

Menopause is one of the most common causes of night sweats. It is the time when the menstrual cycle stops permanently, and you can no longer become pregnant. Perimenopause is the time leading up to menopause. After you go through menopause, hormonal changes occur. Your body makes much less estrogen and progesterone hormones. Low hormone levels cause symptoms like hot flashes (also called hot flushes), which occur in about 75% of women in perimenopause or menopause. These hot flashes, which can last a few minutes, often occur throughout the day, including at night, causing night sweats. Studies show that hot flashes are associated with sleeping problems. If you have menopausal symptoms of night sweats, you can consult your healthcare provider about nonhormonal or hormone therapy that may improve symptoms. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is associated with various benefits and risks, so you will need to discuss this with your healthcare provider. You can also try lifestyle changes like dressing in layers, stopping smoking, and avoiding caffeine and spicy foods. 

Anxiety or stress

Stress and anxiety disorders, including panic attacks, can also cause physical symptoms like sweating, shaking, and fast breathing. These symptoms can also happen while you sleep. Some tips for night sweats due to anxiety or stress include:

• Find time to relax before bed. Avoid electronics and opt for a warm shower and a book.
• Keep your sleep environment relaxing, quiet, and cool.
• Consult a healthcare provider. If you have persistent stress or anxiety, you may want to try cognitive behavioral therapy or take medication for the condition. 

Alcohol

Excessive alcohol use (as well as heroin) has been linked to increased heart rate, body temperature, and night sweats. So can withdrawing from alcohol or other addictive substances. Going through menopause and drinking excess alcohol can significantly worsen night sweats. Try to avoid alcohol, especially in the evening. 

Sleep environment

Sometimes, your sleep environment may be a cause of night sweats. For example, are your pajamas too hot? Is your room too warm? You can take steps to improve your sleep environment, such as keeping the bedroom cool, dressing in light, breathable pajamas, using lightweight bedding, and choosing a breathable mattress. 

Simply put, the term sleep hygiene refers to good sleep habits that help you sleep better. Small, simple changes like avoiding electronics, keeping the bedroom cool, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, go a long way in helping you sleep better. 

Medications

Some medications can affect parts of the brain that control your body temperature or your sweat glands. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist if any of the medications you take could be causing night sweats. Some of the medications associated with night sweats include:

• Aspirin
• Tylenol (acetaminophen)
• Certain medications that treat high blood pressure
• Certain antidepressants
• Nolvadex (tamoxifen)
• Lupron (leuprolide)
• Niacin

The International Hyperhidrosis Society has a more extensive list here. 

If night sweats are making you lose sleep or affecting your quality of life, and you think one of your medications is contributing to the problem, ask your healthcare provider if an alternative medication could be prescribed instead.

Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis is a health condition that causes unpredictable and excessive sweating. Sweating can occur even at a cool temperature or when you are resting. Hyperhidrosis can occur on its own or secondary to another medical condition. Treatment may include strong antiperspirants, Botox, or other medications or procedures. 

Medical conditions

Night sweats can be associated with various medical conditions, such as:

• Hyperthyroidism
• Diabetes (especially during times of low blood sugar)
• Bacterial infections such as endocarditis or tuberculosis, especially if you have a high fever
• Cancer, including prostate cancer, or cancer treatments
• Certain autoimmune conditions, like rheumatoid arthritis
• Depression
• Heart disease
• HIV/AIDS
• Overweight/obesity
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea

Consult your healthcare provider to see if a medical condition is the reason for your night sweats. They can perform a physical exam and order blood tests to look for a cause. In many cases, treating the underlying cause can help with night sweats. 

The impact of sweating in sleep 

Sweating can cause you to lose water, and heavy sweating can increase the risk of dehydration. If this is a concern, you’ll want to take steps to stay hydrated during the day, such as: 

• Sip fluids regularly. Carry a water bottle with you wherever you go. You can even keep track of your water consumption on a mobile app. 
• Try to drink water as your primary beverage. It’s best to avoid sugary drinks like juices and sodas, as well as caffeine and alcohol. 
• Eat lots of fruits and vegetables, which naturally contain water. 

How to stop sweating in sleep

First, consult a healthcare provider if night sweats are interfering with your quality of sleep or quality of life. The best way to stop night sweats may be to treat an underlying condition, if there is one—or switch to a different medicine if a medication is causing night sweats. Some general tips to help you sleep cooler (and better) include: 

• Keep your bedroom cool to avoid a buildup of heat around your body while you sleep. 
• Try a cooling mattress—or if you do not want to replace your mattress, you can try a cooling mattress pad to place over your mattress. 
• Use lightweight, breathable sheets and light quilts, rather than flannel sheets and heavy blankets and comforters. 
• Tight clothes trap heat. Stick to lightweight, loose clothing made of breathable materials. Dress in layers if you like to make adjustments throughout the night. 
• Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods, especially in the evening.
• Drink a small amount of cold water before bed. 
• Weight loss, if needed. 
• Try relaxation techniques before bed, like controlled breathing or meditation. 

Is it normal to sweat in your sleep?

Generally speaking, if you occasionally sweat a little while you sleep—especially in a warm room or with too-warm bedding, it’s not a cause for concern. 

However, if you wake up often due to night sweats, which affect your quality of life and sleep, or if a fever or other symptoms accompany your night sweats, your night sweats could be due to an underlying medical condition. Consult your healthcare provider to determine the cause and the best solution for your night sweats.