Differential Diagnosis for Night Sweats with No Fever
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Menopause or perimenopause: Night sweats are a common symptom of menopause, caused by hormonal changes, particularly the decline in estrogen levels.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Anxiety or stress: Night sweats can be a physical manifestation of anxiety or stress, often related to an overactive sympathetic nervous system.
- Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar levels, especially during sleep, can cause night sweats due to the body's stress response.
- Medication side effects: Certain medications, such as antidepressants, can cause night sweats as a side effect.
- Sleep disorders: Sleep apnea, insomnia, or restless leg syndrome can lead to night sweats due to disrupted sleep patterns.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Lymphoma: Although less common, lymphoma can cause night sweats, and it is crucial to rule out this potentially life-threatening condition.
- Tuberculosis (TB): While fever is often associated with TB, some cases may present with night sweats alone, making it essential to consider this diagnosis.
- Hyperthyroidism: An overactive thyroid gland can cause night sweats, among other symptoms, and requires prompt medical attention.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Pheochromocytoma: A rare tumor of the adrenal gland that can cause night sweats due to excessive catecholamine production.
- Neurological disorders: Certain conditions, such as autonomic dysfunction or multiple system atrophy, can lead to night sweats, although these are relatively rare.
- Hormonal imbalances: Other hormonal imbalances, like growth hormone deficiency or excess, can cause night sweats, but these are less common than other diagnoses.