Four diseases to suspect in people who sweat excessively during sleep

Some people wake up soaked in sweat, with their blankets or pillowcases drenched. Night sweats can occur temporarily due to stress or fatigue, but they can also be caused by certain illnesses. We explore diseases that can induce night sweats during sleep.

◇Sleep Apnea Sleep apnea, which causes brief cessation of breathing during sleep, also induces sweating during sleep. During deep sleep, the parasympathetic nervous system should be activated. However, in patients with sleep apnea, breathing is impaired, leading to activation of the sympathetic nervous system, increased heart rate, and more sweating during sleep. In cases of sleep apnea, it is common to snore and suddenly stop breathing with a 'gasp' sound.

◇Hyperthyroidism When hyperthyroidism occurs, the thyroid gland secretes excessive amounts of thyroid hormones, which can cause sweating. Thyroid hormones promote cellular metabolism and raise body temperature, and when secreted in excess, they lead to profuse sweating. Symptoms may include a rapid heartbeat, fatigue, and anxiety. If left untreated, hyperthyroidism can lead to serious complications such as heart disease, so caution is necessary. Treatment options for hyperthyroidism include taking antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine therapy, or surgery.

◇Anxiety Disorder Some people experience cold sweats due to anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorder occurs when the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems is disrupted, leading to symptoms such as cold sweats, shortness of breath, dizziness, and palpitations. In particular, in cases of panic disorder, a type of anxiety disorder, individuals may experience nocturnal panic attacks characterized by sudden cold sweats and difficulty breathing during sleep. Anxiety disorders are treated with antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications. Meanwhile, side effects of psychiatric medications can cause cold sweats during sleep, in which case patients should visit the hospital to discuss medication adjustments with their doctor.

◇If you experience night sweats, lose more than 3kg in a month without dieting, feel lumps in your neck, armpits, or groin, and have symptoms such as itching, it could be blood cancer. Blood cancer refers to cancers that develop in blood cells, hematopoietic organs, bone marrow, or lymph nodes, including malignant lymphoma, leukemia, and multiple myeloma. About 30% of blood cancer patients experience night sweats during sleep. Blood cancer cells often release inflammatory substances without reason, and as our immune system responds to these substances, night sweats occur. When blood cancer cells cause inflammation under the skin, widespread itching is also commonly observed.

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