Hot flashes and night sweats are often caused by hormonal imbalances, such as during menopause or pregnancy, but can also be caused by medical conditions like fever or HIV. Treatment options include hormone replacement therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. In severe cases, sweat glands may be removed or blocked.
The most common causes of hot flashes and night sweats are hormonal imbalances. This can occur with things like pregnancy and menopause or, less commonly, PMS. Sometimes hormone imbalances can also occur with certain medical conditions, such as a high fever or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.
Hot flashes and night sweats are usually characterized by a sudden feeling of warmth, even when the weather or core temperatures don’t warrant it, as well as night-time awakenings with heavy sweating. Each person can experience these things to varying degrees, with some days being very severe and other days having few or no events. Many times hot flashes pass within minutes.
Most often, hot flashes and night sweats are due to the rise and fall of certain hormones naturally present in the body. Many women experience these things during menopause as estrogen levels drop dramatically. They can be combated with hormone replacement therapy and some other treatments. Sometimes pregnant women also experience similar symptoms, but they usually subside after delivery.
In some cases, hot flashes and night sweats can be caused by a serious medical condition. Some infections can cause cold night sweats and intense heat from a fever. This is almost always a transient condition that can be treated with medication or by allowing the disease to run its course. A fever can usually be brought down using medication, although if this doesn’t work, you should see a doctor for further advice.
HIV infection can also cause hot flashes and night sweats in some patients. This can occur to a lesser extent upon contracting the disease, as well as later as a primary symptom. There is generally no treatment for this condition when it is related to HIV. Patients should sleep using absorbent sheets which will keep moisture away from the body. It may also be a good idea to avoid clothing that clings to the skin, such as silk or satin.
The main treatment usually involves treating the underlying condition. When the condition cannot be treated, patients can find ways to deal with the discomfort by taking cool showers during the day and at night, wearing cool, moisture-wicking clothing, and drinking plenty of water. Occasionally, sweating may occur during waking hours, so a deodorant or antiperspirant may help. In very severe cases, sweat glands may be removed or blocked to reduce sweating symptoms.
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