Why Am I Shivering or Sweating at Night?

Nighttime shivering and sweating can disrupt sleep and alter sleep architecture, as core body temperature drops when transitioning to NREM (slow wave or deep) sleep. These can indicate underlying health issues.

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“Sweating or shivering is only pathological if you’re sleeping in environments that are outside of the thermoneutral zone of the body,” explains Dr. Renske Lok.

This article provides comprehensive information on the causes and solutions for these symptoms, helping individuals spur healthy sleeping habits and overall well-being.

Topics covered include the impact of bedroom temperature, infections, menopause, medication withdrawal, and anesthesia. Additionally, the article explores the correlation between what causes night sweats and conditions such as panic attacks, cancer, acid reflux, and more.

By recognizing potential causes and seeking medical attention, individuals can take proactive steps toward finding relief and improving their sleep experience.

Common Causes of Nighttime Shivering and Sweating

Nighttime shivering and sweating can be caused by various factors, including:

• Infection
• Menopause
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Hormone disorders
• Anxiety, Stress and Insomnia

These conditions can disrupt the body’s temperature regulation, leading to discomfort and disturbed sleep. Identifying the underlying cause is crucial to managing and alleviating these symptoms effectively.

Infection

Infection, particularly urinary tract infection, Verified Source Mayo Clinic Ranked #1 hospital by U.S. News & World Report and one of the most trusted medical institutions in the world. The staff is committed to integrated patient care, education, and research. View source is one of the common causes of chills and shivering at night. Night sweats, cold sweats, and excessive sweating can also be associated with other infections.

When the body is fighting off an infection, it may raise its body temperature, leading to fever dreams, sweating and shivering as mechanisms to regulate body temperature. Viral infections can cause symptoms such as hot flashes, contributing to nighttime sweating and shivering.

“Some scientists claim Verified Source Oxford Academic Research journal published by Oxford University. View source that this is actually an essential component of the fever,” notes Dr. Renske Lok. “It’s a fundamental component of the evolved systemic response to infection called “the acute phase” response. Elevated body heat enhances the effectiveness of immune cells, puts direct pressure on pathogens and infected cells, and synergizes with other stressors to bolster nonspecific immune defenses.”

Identifying the underlying cause of these symptoms is important, as they may indicate a more serious condition. Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source If experiencing persistent night sweats or shivering, it is recommended to seek medical attention to determine the appropriate course of action.

Menopause

Menopause is a natural biological process characterized by hormonal changes and, often, nighttime shivering and sweating. Verified Source Cleveland Clinic Ranked #2 hospital by U.S. News & World Report and one of the largest academic medical centers in America. The Cleveland Clinic serves patients from all over the world. View source Many women experience menopause-related night sweats, which can disrupt sleep quality and cause discomfort. These hormonal fluctuations, particularly a decrease in estrogen, can lead to hot flashes and cold sweats. Other menopause symptoms, such as chest pain and weight loss, often accompany night sweats.

While hormone therapy can help manage these symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable treatment plan. Maintaining the perfect sleep environment, wearing breathable sleepwear, and practicing good sleep hygiene can help alleviate menopause-related night sweats.

Ensuring proper sleep quality is crucial to overall well-being during this transitional phase and minimizing night sweats in women. Speaking with your doctor about treatment options can help make this change easier.

Obstructive sleep apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea, a sleep disorder characterized by repetitive pauses in breathing during sleep, can contribute to excessive sweating and shivering at night. This can be concerning for individuals experiencing night sweats and other symptoms.

While sweating and shivering can be caused by factors such as room temperature, how weather influences sleep, and hormonal issues, it is important to consider obstructive sleep apnea as a potential cause.

Seeking immediate medical attention is crucial, as untreated sleep apnea can lead to immediate (such as excessive daytime sleepiness) and longterm serious health complications. Verified Source Mayo Clinic Ranked #1 hospital by U.S. News & World Report and one of the most trusted medical institutions in the world. The staff is committed to integrated patient care, education, and research. View source

Diagnosing night sweats can require a comprehensive evaluation, including assessing a healthy bedroom environment, evaluating the function of sweat glands, and ruling out other medical conditions.

It is important to remember that night sweats can be a symptom of a medical emergency, Verified Source Cleveland Clinic Ranked #2 hospital by U.S. News & World Report and one of the largest academic medical centers in America. The Cleveland Clinic serves patients from all over the world. View source and prompt medical attention should be sought if accompanied by severe symptoms or worsening conditions.

Hormone Disorder

Hormone disorders, such as hyperthyroidism, Verified Source Mayo Clinic Ranked #1 hospital by U.S. News & World Report and one of the most trusted medical institutions in the world. The staff is committed to integrated patient care, education, and research. View source adrenal insufficiency, and other medications, can contribute to nighttime shivering and sweating in individuals. These conditions can disrupt the body’s temperature regulation, leading to excessive sweating or shivering during sleep.

Night sweats, characterized by heavy sweating, can be a common symptom because of hormonal changes, Verified Source Cleveland Clinic Ranked #2 hospital by U.S. News & World Report and one of the largest academic medical centers in America. The Cleveland Clinic serves patients from all over the world. View source particularly during menopause, as mentioned above. Hot flashes, sudden waves of heat, and sweating are commonly experienced by women going through menopause.

As for night sweats in men, low testosterone is a common hormonal factor.

Low blood glucose levels, or low blood sugar, Verified Source Johns Hopkins Medicine University focused on medical research that produces thoroughly reviewed health articles. View source can cause night sweats. It is important to note that high blood pressure can also contribute to sweating at night.

Stress and Anxiety

The need to reduce stress hormones and anxiety, often exacerbated by external factors or internal pressures, can contribute to nighttime shivering and sweating in individuals. When faced with stressful situations, the body’s fight or flight response is activated, leading to a cascade of physiological changes.

This includes increased heart rate and the release of stress hormones, which can result in sweating and shivering. Additionally, individuals experiencing high stress levels may engage in behaviors which can further disrupt normal sweating patterns and exacerbate symptoms.

To alleviate these symptoms, individuals can practice deep breathing exercises, create a calming sleep environment, and seek professional help if experiencing other concerning symptoms. By addressing stress and anxiety, individuals can improve their mental and physical well-being and quality of sleep.

Cancer

Nighttime shivering and sweating can be distressing symptoms that individuals with cancer commonly experience due to the body’s response to tumor-related inflammation and the release of cytokines Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source during the disease. These symptoms can indicate an underlying health condition and may be a side effect of certain cancer treatments. It is important for individuals experiencing these symptoms to consult their healthcare provider for proper evaluation and management.

Evidence suggests that changes in hormone levels, such as those seen in certain types of cancer, can contribute to severe nighttime shivering and sweating. These symptoms can significantly impact the quality of life and sleep of individuals with cancer. Therefore, addressing and managing these symptoms effectively is crucial to improve overall well-being during cancer treatment. Verified Source Mayo Clinic Ranked #1 hospital by U.S. News & World Report and one of the most trusted medical institutions in the world. The staff is committed to integrated patient care, education, and research. View source

How to Manage Shivering and Sweating While Asleep

The regulation of body temperature during sleep is crucial in addressing the challenge of managing shivering and sweating. Shivering and sweating at night can disrupt sleep and lead to discomfort and fatigue.

Various factors, including the best temperature for sleeping in the bedroom, infections, menopause, medication withdrawal, and certain health conditions can cause these symptoms.

“The European Insomnia Network recommends to keep the bedroom temperature preferably at ~19 °C constant,” notes Dr. Lok, which is about 66 degrees Fahrenheit. “If this is not possible, keep it as close as possible to 20–25 °C. Temperatures >25 °C can be disruptive to sleep, particularly increasing the amount of wakefulness at the expense of slow wave sleep (deep sleep).”

To manage shivering and sweating while they fall asleep well, individuals can adjust the bedroom temperature, change their mattress, bedding, types of bed sheets, or sleepwear, and seek medical advice if concerned. It is important to recognize that shivering and sweating can also be symptoms of an underlying or health condition.

If symptoms persist or worsen, it is recommended to consult a doctor who can provide appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Proper management of these symptoms can improve sleep quality and overall well-being.

Understanding Night Sweating: Causes and Associations

Night sweating can be a distressing symptom that disrupts sleep and affects overall well-being. Understanding the underlying causes and associations Verified Source Mayo Clinic Ranked #1 hospital by U.S. News & World Report and one of the most trusted medical institutions in the world. The staff is committed to integrated patient care, education, and research. View source of night sweating is essential for providing appropriate care and support to those experiencing this symptom.

Hormonal issues, such as fluctuations in estrogen levels Verified Source Cleveland Clinic Ranked #2 hospital by U.S. News & World Report and one of the largest academic medical centers in America. The Cleveland Clinic serves patients from all over the world. View source during menopause, can lead to night sweats. Medications, including certain antidepressants and hormone therapies, can also cause excessive sweating.

Environmental factors, such as a warm bedroom temperature or heavy bed sheets and bedding accessories, can contribute to night sweating. Stress and anxiety can trigger sweating episodes.

Certain medical conditions, such as infections, cancer, and hyperthyroidism, Verified Source Mayo Clinic Ranked #1 hospital by U.S. News & World Report and one of the most trusted medical institutions in the world. The staff is committed to integrated patient care, education, and research. View source are also associated with night sweats. Recognizing these other causes of night sweats and their associations can guide healthcare professionals in assessing symptoms and developing effective treatment plans for individuals experiencing night sweating.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Nighttime Shivering or Sweating

Seeking medical attention for nighttime shivering or sweating is crucial when persistent symptoms persist despite attempts to modify the sleep environment within the recommended range of temperature for sleeping. While these symptoms are often benign and can be caused by factors such as room temperature or hormonal changes, they can also indicate underlying medical conditions requiring attention.

In rare cases, night sweats can be a symptom of certain cancers, such as lymphoma and leukemia, Verified Source Cleveland Clinic Ranked #2 hospital by U.S. News & World Report and one of the largest academic medical centers in America. The Cleveland Clinic serves patients from all over the world. View source as identified by the National Cancer Institute. Women’s health issues, such as menopause and hormonal imbalances, can also contribute to these symptoms. Heart attacks, low blood sugar, and certain infections can cause night sweats or shivering.

It is important to consult a healthcare professional if symptoms are severe, persist, or are accompanied by other concerning symptoms. They can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment or further testing.

Exploring the Reasons Behind Sweating and Shivering at Night

During the night, individuals may experience sweating and shivering due to various factors such as changes in room temperature, hormonal imbalances, or underlying medical conditions. Understanding the reasons behind these nighttime discomforts is crucial in providing effective solutions.

• Spicy Foods: Consuming spicy foods before bedtime can increase body temperature, leading to sweating and discomfort during sleep.
• Menstrual Cycle: Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can cause hot flashes and night sweats in women, affecting their sleep quality.
• Air Conditioning: Extreme temperatures from air conditioning can disrupt the body’s thermoregulation, resulting in shivering and sweating.

Addressing these factors and implementing strategies like adjusting room temperature, avoiding spicy foods, and managing hormonal imbalances can help alleviate sweating and shivering at night.

For more information on women’s health and managing these symptoms, the National Institute of Health Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source provides valuable resources. Remember to consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes night sweats and shivering?

Night sweats frequently go hand in hand with diseases that cause a fever and chills. During the menopausal transition in women, for instance, night sweats may also be linked to hormonal issues. Low blood sugar, anxiety or panic attacks, and neurological diseases that cause tremors can all cause trembling, causing cold sweats.

Why do I suddenly start shivering at night?

You could experience nighttime shivering if your bedroom is too cold or you don’t have enough clothing or blankets to keep you warm. Additional root causes include fever, an immunological response to an infection, including bacterial and viral infections, and chills.

Why am I sweating one minute and freezing the next at night?

There are many possible reasons why cold sweats occur, including shock, panic, and infections. Cold sweat and sweats may occasionally indicate a serious medical condition when they are persistent. Fever due to infections is usually brief and can have positive effects (enhanced immune function).

Also, a typical sign of the fight-or-flight reaction is cold sweats.

Can anxiety cause shivering at night?

This is frequently our body’s reaction to being chilly. However, you might not be aware that anxiety can also cause chills. Your blood may flow less effectively due to physiological responses to anxiety, giving you goosebumps. You may feel wobbly and start to sweat or shiver if you are experiencing anxiety shivers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, nighttime shivering and sweating can be caused by various factors such as:

• Bedroom temperature
• Infections
• Menopause
• Medication withdrawal
• Anesthesia

It can also be associated with the following symptoms:

• Panic attacks
• Cancer
• Acid reflux
• Hyperthyroidism
• Obesity
• Low blood sugar
• Tuberculosis
• HIV

Managing and reducing these symptoms is crucial for improving sleep quality and overall well-being. Seeking medical attention is recommended if the symptoms persist or worsen. By understanding the underlying causes and seeking appropriate treatment, individuals can find relief and improve their sleep experience.