Waking up drenched in sweat and then feeling sudden chills? These are typical signs of night sweats in women, often one of the earliest indicators of perimenopause.
This symptom is closely linked to hormonal changes that occur during this stage of life. However, other causes can trigger it as well. In this article, we’ll explore why it occurs, its impact on quality of life, and the most effective ways to manage it.
What are night sweats in women?
Night sweats are a common symptom for women, especially during perimenopause, menopause, and sometimes postmenopause. However, they can also appear during other life stages, like pregnancy (1, 2).
They involve excessive sweating at night, often soaking pyjamas and bedsheets, even when the room is cool. It typically includes (1, 3, 4):
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Hot flushes or intense heat sensations.
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Skin redness.
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Chills or cold sweats.
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Occasional rapid heartbeat (tachycardia).
Causes of night sweats in women
The exact cause of night sweats during menopause is not fully understood. However, the drop in estrogen levels appears to affect the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that regulates body temperature.
Think of it as your internal thermostat malfunctioning. The brain mistakenly perceives a rise in body temperature, triggering an exaggerated cooling response characterised by excessive sweating, heat waves, and redness, particularly on the face, neck, and chest.
Other possible causes of night sweats in women
While night sweats in women are often linked to menopause, they can also be caused by (1, 3):
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Anxiety or stress.
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Certain medications (antidepressants, steroids, pain relievers).
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Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar).
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Alcohol or drug use.
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Some types of cancer.
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Hyperhidrosis, a harmless condition that causes excessive sweating without an underlying disease.
Impact on quality of life
Night sweats in women not only disrupt sleep but also cause fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. Chronic sleep disturbance can weaken the immune system and increase emotional sensitivity (2, 3).
When consulting your doctor
It's important to seek medical advice if you experience (1, 3):
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Frequent night sweats that disturb your sleep or cause concern.
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Additional symptoms like fever, chills, persistent cough, muscle pains, or tingling in the hands.
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Unexplained weight loss alongside night sweats.
Other menopause-related symptoms such as (4):
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Brown discharge (before or after menstruation).
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Or changes in breast size.
Identifying the underlying cause of night sweats is essential for proper treatment.
Effective ways to ease night sweats in women
If night sweats affect your rest or quality of life, consult a healthcare professional. They can recommend the most appropriate treatment based on your symptoms, medical history, and life stage.
The most effective treatment for hot flushes and night sweats is hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which replenishes estrogen levels to compensate for the hormonal decline associated with menopause (1, 3, 4).
Non-hormonal medications, such as certain antidepressants or anticonvulsants, may also reduce symptom intensity but tend to be less effective than HRT (1, 3, 4).
Lifestyle changes
In addition to medical treatment, healthy habits can help ease night sweats: (1, 3, 4):
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Wear lightweight, breathable pyjamas and cotton sheets.
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Keep your bedroom cool (fans, open windows, air conditioning).
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Avoid spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol before bed.
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Establish a regular sleep routine and practice relaxation techniques like meditation.
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Losing a few pounds may help reduce the severity of night sweat symptoms.
Natural alternatives
For a natural option to manage night sweats and other menopause symptoms, consider the All-Stage supplement. It contains evening primrose oil, sage extract, red tea, vitamins, and minerals to support your well-being during this stage of life, without the side effects of some hormonal treatments.
In conclusion, night sweats in women are a common symptom of hormonal changes during menopause. But they can also be a reminder to prioritise self-care. With proper support and lifestyle changes, you can navigate this stage more comfortably.
Curious about early menopause? Please keep reading to learn how to recognise it and what to do.
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