Differential Diagnosis for Night Sweats
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Hypertension: Night sweats can be associated with hypertension, possibly due to the body's increased blood pressure and heart rate during sleep.
- Menopause: Hot flashes and night sweats are common symptoms of menopause, caused by hormonal changes.
- Anxiety or Stress: Stress and anxiety can cause night sweats due to the body's "fight or flight" response.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Infections: Tuberculosis, endocarditis, and osteomyelitis can cause night sweats due to the body's immune response.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Hyperthyroidism, pheochromocytoma, and carcinoid syndrome can cause night sweats due to excessive hormone production.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as antidepressants, can cause night sweats as a side effect.
- Sleep Disorders: Sleep apnea, insomnia, and restless leg syndrome can cause night sweats due to disrupted sleep patterns.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Lymphoma: Night sweats can be a symptom of lymphoma, particularly Hodgkin's lymphoma.
- Tuberculosis: Although less common in developed countries, tuberculosis is a serious infection that can cause night sweats.
- Endocarditis: Infectious endocarditis is a life-threatening condition that can cause night sweats.
- Pheochromocytoma: This rare tumor can cause excessive adrenaline production, leading to night sweats.
Rare Diagnoses
- Brucellosis: A rare bacterial infection that can cause night sweats.
- Histoplasmosis: A fungal infection that can cause night sweats, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
- Castleman Disease: A rare lymphoproliferative disorder that can cause night sweats.
- Whipple's Disease: A rare bacterial infection that can cause night sweats, among other symptoms.