Causes of Night Sweats How to Deal with It

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Causes of Night Sweats How to Deal with It

We've all experienced it: waking up in the middle of the night with our sheets drenched in sweat. Although it's an uncomfortable sensation, sweating during sleep is the body's natural response to various situations. However, when it becomes frequent, it's time to understand what's going on. Let's unravel the possible causes of night sweats and find out how to solve this problem.

Understanding Night Sweats

According to experts such as Natalie Barnett, Ph.D., and Chester Wu, a psychiatrist and sleep medicine specialist, sweating at night is a logical reaction of the body to certain conditions. Body temperature fluctuates during the night, so you can go from feeling cold to sweating profusely. So let's see how you can minimise these extremes.

Controlling Room Temperature

Is it too hot and humid?

To control sweating, start by adjusting the room temperature. Make sure the room is well ventilated and consider investing in good thermal insulation. Also, use a fan or air conditioning to keep the temperature pleasant throughout the night.

Choosing the right nightwear

The Pyjamas May Be to Blame

The materials of your bed linen and sheets make all the difference. Fabrics such as polyester and nylon don't allow the skin to breathe and increase perspiration. Favour breathable materials such as cotton, satin or viscose. In winter, flannel and wool are great options.

Nutrition and night sweats

Watch out for alcohol and dinner

Although it may seem that a drink before bed helps you relax, it can actually disturb your sleep and increase sweating. Alcohol speeds up the heart rate and raises body temperature. So avoid alcoholic drinks in the evening and opt for soothing teas or milk instead. Also, have dinner at least three hours before bed and avoid spicy food in the evening.

Managing Stress

Checking Stress and Anxiety Levels

Chronic stress can trigger reactions in the body, such as increased heart rate and the release of hormones, which contribute to night sweats. Reduce screen time and take at least 30 to 60 minutes before bed to relax. This can include reading, meditation or a hot bath.

Medicines and Hormonal Fluctuations

Are you taking medication?

Some medications, such as antidepressants, diabetes treatments, painkillers and hormone therapies, can cause increased sweating. If you suspect that your medication is contributing to the problem, consult a doctor for an assessment.

Hormonal fluctuations

Hormonal changes, especially during the menopause, can trigger night sweats. In this case, simple measures such as applying a cold towel to your head or uncovering parts of your body, such as your feet and neck, can help relieve the discomfort.

Conclusion

Sweating during sleep can be uncomfortable, but it's a natural response of the body to various situations. By understanding the causes and implementing the tips mentioned above, you can improve the quality of your sleep and wake up feeling more rested. However, if the problem persists, don't hesitate to seek medical advice.