Night Sweats

Night sweats during menopause and perimenopause are caused by hormonal fluctuations, particularly the decline in oestrogen, which affects the body's temperature regulation.

Introduction

Night sweats, or excessive sweating during sleep, are a common symptom of menopause and perimenopause, caused primarily by hormonal changes. The decline in oestrogen affects the hypothalamus, the part of the brain responsible for regulating body temperature. When oestrogen levels drop, the hypothalamus may misinterpret the body’s temperature, causing a heat surge that triggers sweating to cool down the body. Factors like stress, hot environments, spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol can exacerbate night sweats.

Our Adviser

Dr Shirin Lakhani

Dr Shirin Lakhani MBBS MRCGP DRCOG is a highly experienced GP and aesthetic physician, combining medical expertise with advanced aesthetic techniques. With a background in NHS medicine, surgery, and anaesthetics, she is passionate about patient safety, ethical practice, and natural results.

Find Out More
about

Night sweats are characterized by:

  • Sudden, intense sweating during sleep, soaking clothing and bed sheets
  • Waking up feeling hot and uncomfortable
  • Chills or feeling cold after the sweating episode
  • Difficulty falling back asleep due to discomfort
  • Accompanying symptoms like flushing or increased heart rate

These episodes can disrupt sleep quality and lead to daytime fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.

Tips on How to Manage or Reduce Symptoms

Lifestyle Tips:

  1. Keep the Bedroom Cool: Use a fan or air conditioner to maintain a comfortable sleep environment. Lightweight, moisture-wicking bedding can help regulate body temperature.
  2. Dress in Layers: Wear light, breathable, cotton pyjamas and layer your bedding so you can easily adjust as needed.
  3. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help regulate body temperature.
  4. Avoid Triggers: Identify and avoid triggers such as spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeine, especially in the evening.
  5. Practice Relaxation Techniques: Activities like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can help reduce stress, which may lessen the severity of night sweats.
  6. Exercise Regularly: Engage in moderate physical activity, but avoid exercising close to bedtime, as it may raise your body temperature.

Treatment Options:

  • Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): HRT may help stabilize hormone levels and reduce the severity of night sweats. Discuss the benefits and risks with your healthcare provider.
  • Non-Hormonal Medications: Certain antidepressants or medications like gabapentin may be prescribed to manage night sweats if HRT is not an option.
  • Lifestyle Counselling: Working with a healthcare provider to create a personalized plan can help manage symptoms effectively.
about

Conclusion

Night sweats are a common and often disruptive symptom of menopause and perimenopause caused by hormonal changes. While lifestyle adjustments, such as maintaining a cool sleep environment and managing triggers, can provide relief, medical treatments are available if symptoms are severe. Monitoring your symptoms and consulting with a healthcare provider can help you find the most effective way to manage night sweats and improve your quality of life.

Night Sweats FAQ's

Night sweats are a type of hot flash that occurs specifically during sleep. Both are caused by hormonal fluctuations and can be managed with similar strategies.

Yes, certain foods and drinks, such as caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods, can trigger night sweats. Eating a balanced diet and avoiding these triggers can help reduce symptoms.

For many women, night sweats decrease or resolve after menopause, but the duration varies. Some women may continue to experience symptoms for several years.