Night sweats, also known as sleep hyperhidrosis or pavor nocturnus, is a condition that causes excessive sweating during sleep. It can interfere with a restful, restorative sleep and can be quite uncomfortable. It’s usually temporary and can have many causes, both medical and nonmedical. Infections, though, are one possible cause of night sweats. Here’s what you need to know.
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Bacterial Infections
Bacterial infections are one type of infection that can lead to night sweats. Tuberculosis, or TB, is the most common infectious disease that is associated with night sweats. TB is an airborne disease that is spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or sings. Other bacterial infections, such as endocarditis which is an infection of the inner lining of the heart, or staph and sepsis infections can also cause night sweats.
Fungal Infections
Fungal infections like candidiasis (thrush) and histoplasmosis can also cause night sweats. Candidiasis is an infection caused by a type of yeast known as Candida albicans. Histoplasmosis is a fungal infection caused by airborne fungus called Histoplasma capsulatum.
Viral Infections
Viral infections can cause night sweats as well. These include HIV, influenza (flu), and mononucleosis (mono). Other viral infections, such as dengue fever, the West Nile virus, and cytomegalovirus, can also cause night sweats.
Parasitic Infections
Finally, some parasitic infections can cause night sweats. These include malaria and toxoplasmosis.
How To Treat Night Sweats Caused By Infection
If you have night sweats caused by an infection, it’s important to see your doctor. Night sweats caused by infection may require treatment with antibiotics or other medications. Your doctor can help you determine the best course of treatment.
Health Tips To Help Prevent Night Sweats
While infections can be the cause of night sweats, there are some simple ways to help prevent them. Here are some tips to help you:
- Wear loose, breathable clothing. Wearing lightweight clothing made from natural fibers like cotton can help keep you cool during sleep.
- Keep your bedroom cool. The temperature of your bedroom should be between 60 and 67 degrees for maximum comfort.
- Drink plenty of cool liquids. Drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day will help regulate your temperature.
- Avoid spicy foods and alcohol. Spicy foods and alcohol can make you sweat more and disrupt your sleep.
- Get regular exercise. Regular physical activity can help reduce the hot flashes and night sweats associated with menopause.
Night sweats can be uncomfortable and disruptive to a restful sleep. If night sweats are caused by an infection, it’s important to see your doctor to find the best course of treatment. In the meantime, following these simple tips can help you manage your symptoms and get a better night’s sleep.
