As temperatures rise, it’s common for us all to start sweating more, which is the body’s natural response to cool down and prevent heatstroke and other serious conditions. However, while most of us are used to sticky skin and wet clothes during the day, some people also experience night sweats. While this may be harmless, it can also be a sign of more serious problems, GP Suhail Hussain explained in an interview with the Daily Express.
“Night sweats are common, especially on hot, humid nights,” said Dr. Hussain. “However, they shouldn’t be automatically dismissed as just heat. Night sweats can be a sign of more serious problems, such as serious infections, menopause, and even cancer,” he added.
Cancers linked to excessive sweating
Types of cancer that can cause night sweats include:
- Hodgkin's lymphoma
- Cancerous tumors
- leukemia
- mesothelioma
- bone cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Advanced medullary thyroid cancer
Dr. Hussein revealed that there is a clear difference between “normal” night sweats and those that may be signs of something more serious. “Cancer-related sweats often wake a person completely drenched in wet pajamas and sheets,” he explained.
Common Causes of Night Sweats in Cancer Patients
Referring to cancer, Hussein said the most common causes of night sweats are leukemia and lymphoma. These cancers, which affect the blood and lymph nodes, can cause the glands to swell and make it easier to bruise. Additionally, cancerous tumors, which are benign or malignant tumors that sometimes produce excess amounts of hormone-like substances (such as serotonin), can also cause excessive sweating by affecting hormonal function through the neuroendocrine system.
Other symptoms to consider
Dr. Hussein also highlighted other symptoms to watch out for:
- Fatigue or lack of daily energy
- unexplained bruises
- unexplainable pain
- Swollen lymph nodes
Consult a doctor if in doubt.
Finally, Dr. Hussein advises that when in doubt, it is best to consult a specialist. “The bottom line is that if you are sweating a lot and it lasts for a very long time, go to your family doctor and get a checkup,” he recommended.
Andrea Hargraves is a contributor to Brytfmonline.com, covering a broad range of topics including news, politics, business, technology, sports, entertainment, and lifestyle. She is committed to delivering clear, accurate, and reader-focused reporting that helps audiences stay informed about current events and emerging developments. Andrea’s work emphasizes useful information, balanced coverage, and stories that matter to everyday readers, making complex topics accessible and relevant to a wide audience.