WHAT CAUSES NIGHT SWEATS AND HOW TO STOP THEM

Waking up drenched in sweat can be a real nightmare. Night sweats can disrupt your sleep and leave you feeling uncomfortable and exhausted. But don’t worry, we’ve got you. Let’s tuck into what causes night sweats and how you can stop them for a more restful night’s sleep.

WHY DO I SWEAT IN MY SLEEP?

Night sweats are medically known as nocturnal hyperhidrosis.¹ This happens when your body produces an excessive amount of sweat while you sleep. The reasons for night sweats can be triggered by a variety of factors. From hormonal changes to lifestyle habits, understanding the root cause can help you tackle the problem head-on. Here are some common reasons for night sweats:

Hormonal imbalances: Fluctuations in hormones, especially during menopause or pregnancy, can cause night sweats.

Medications: Certain medications, like antidepressants and fever reducers, can lead to excessive sweating at night.²

Infections: Tuberculosis, HIV, and other infections can cause night sweats.

Medical conditions: Conditions like hyperthyroidism, diabetes, and certain cancers can also be culprits.

Lifestyle factors: Stress, diet, and alcohol consumption can all contribute to night sweats.³

How much sweat is considered night sweats?

Night sweats are defined as “repeated episodes of very heavy sweating while you sleep, that soaks your clothes or your bedding.”¹ So, if you wake up, and need to change your clothes or bedding due to the amount of sweat, it could be that you’re experiencing night sweats.

WHAT CAUSES NIGHT SWEATS IN MEN

For men, night sweats can often be linked to:

Testosterone levels: Low testosterone can lead to night sweats.
Stress: The demands of modern life often lead to stress and anxiety, which can even be present in your dreams.
Diet: Spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol can all cause night sweats.

WHAT CAUSES NIGHT SWEATS IN WOMEN

Women might experience night sweats because of:

Menopause: Hormonal changes during menopause are a major cause of night sweats.
Pregnancy: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can lead to night sweats.
Hormonal Imbalances: Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can cause night sweats.⁴

Young woman fanning herself while sweating during her sleep

HOW TO STOP NIGHT SWEATS NATURALLY

A few simple adjustments can help stop night sweats:

Adjust your room setup

Keep your bedroom cool and go for breathable bedding to make a big difference. Choose lightweight, moisture-wicking sheets and pajamas to stay comfortable all night.

Watch what you eat and drink

Stay hydrated to help regulate your body temperature and reduce excessive sweating. Skip sweat-triggering foods like spicy dishes, caffeine, and alcohol—especially before bed—to give your body the best chance to stay cool and comfortable through the night.

Practice relaxation techniques

Stress can be a major trigger for night sweats. Try de-stressing methods using deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help keep stress levels in check.

HOW TO PREVENT NIGHT SWEATS WITH THE RIGHT PRODUCTS

The right products can make a huge difference when it comes to night sweats. The right deodorant doesn’t just control odor—it actively reduces sweating while you sleep, so you wake up feeling fresh and dry.

Apply a clinical-strength deodorant before bed to help control excessive sweating. These formulas contain higher concentrations of active ingredients like aluminum chloride or aluminum zirconium, which absorb overnight to create a barrier that reduces sweat production the next day. Nighttime application allows the formula to work while your body is at rest.

If you’re sweating beyond your underarms, whole body deodorants offer sweat and odor protection for areas like the chest, back, and inner thighs. These formulas help keep skin dry and comfortable without irritation.

To get the best results:

Apply deodorant to clean, dry skin before bed to maximize absorption

Wear lightweight, breathable fabrics to help regulate body temperature

Use a cooling mattress topper or moisture-wicking sheets for extra comfort

Make deodorant part of your nighttime routine helps prevent night sweats, so you wake up feeling drier, fresher, and more comfortable.

FAQs

When should I be worried about night sweats?

While night sweats are often harmless, they can sometimes signal a more serious health issue. If you experience persistent night sweats along with symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fever, or fatigue—or if it’s affecting your quality of life—it’s a good idea to consult a doctor. They can help identify the underlying cause and recommend the best treatment to get you back to restful sleep.

Why do I sweat at night even when it’s cold?

Sweating at night even when it’s cold can be due to hormonal imbalances, stress, or certain medical conditions. It’s best to consult a doctor if this is a regular occurrence.

How long can night sweats last?

The duration of night sweats can vary depending on the underlying cause. For some, it may be a temporary issue, while for others, it can last for months or even years.

Night sweats can turn restful nights into sweaty struggles, but they don’t have to take over your sleep. Understanding what causes night sweats—whether it’s stress, hormones, or your room temperature—gives you the power to make small changes that add up. From breathable bedding and cooling pajamas to staying hydrated and using a reliable deodorant like Degree, you can build a nighttime routine that helps keep sweat in check. And if you're still wondering why night sweats are lingering longer than a few weeks, checking in with your doctor is a smart next step. With a little care and the right products, waking up dry and refreshed is totally within reach.

References

1. John Hopkins Medicine. Conditions and Diseases. Excessive Sweating.

2. Newsom R, Singh A. What causes night sweats? SleepFoundation.org. 2024.

3. Summer J, Singh A. Anxiety and night sweats. SleepFoundation.org. 2023.

4. Night Sweats in Women: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment. Early Bird. 2025.

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