From the Guidelines
Night sweats warrant immediate medical attention when they are severe, recurrent, and accompanied by other concerning symptoms, as they may signal underlying conditions that impact morbidity, mortality, and quality of life. You should consult a doctor if you experience severe night sweats that soak through bedding or pajamas, especially when combined with unexplained weight loss, fever, persistent cough, fatigue, or changes in bowel habits 1. These symptoms could indicate underlying conditions such as infections, hormonal disorders, certain cancers, or medication side effects.
Some key considerations when evaluating night sweats include:
- Suspected sleep disorders, which may require in-depth questions or questionnaires for restless leg syndrome (RLS) or obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), referral for overnight oximetry, or ferritin level checks for RLS 1
- Referral to a sleep clinic for suspected sleep disorders, including rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (RBD), which may require diagnosis and subsequent referral to neurology 1
- Evaluation for other underlying conditions, such as menopause, thyroid problems, or diabetes, which may cause night sweats
It is essential to track when night sweats occur and any accompanying symptoms to help your doctor determine the cause and appropriate treatment. While occasional mild night sweats due to environmental factors are usually harmless, persistent or severe episodes should still be evaluated, especially in the context of other concerning symptoms or underlying medical conditions 1. Night sweats themselves are not directly dangerous, but they may signal conditions requiring medical intervention to prevent adverse outcomes and improve quality of life.
From the Research
Night Sweats and Associated Factors
- Night sweats can be a symptom of various underlying conditions, and it is essential to identify the cause to determine the best course of action.
- According to a study published in 2015 2, night sweats were reported by 9.2% of the participants, and the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) was associated with an increased risk of night sweats.
- Another study published in 2006 3 reported a case of a reproductive-aged woman experiencing night sweats and elevated follicle-stimulating hormone levels while taking SSRIs for depression.
Medications Associated with Night Sweats
- SSRIs, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), and thyroid hormone supplements were found to be associated with night sweats in a study published in 2015 2.
- The use of SSRIs and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) has been shown to reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes in menopausal women, as reported in a study published in 2017 4.
- A review published in 2025 5 examined the efficacy and cardiovascular safety of nonhormonal treatments for vasomotor symptoms, including SSRIs and SNRIs, and found that they can provide significant relief for women who are unable to use hormone replacement therapy.
When to Worry About Night Sweats
- If night sweats are accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, weight loss, or fatigue, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying conditions.
- Night sweats can also be a side effect of certain medications, and if you are experiencing night sweats and are taking any medications, it is crucial to discuss this with your healthcare provider.
- In general, if you are concerned about night sweats or are experiencing them frequently, it is best to consult a healthcare professional to determine the cause and develop a plan to manage them.