What Are the Causes of Night Sweats in the Elderly?
The term night sweats refers to the nightly occurrence of hyperhidrosis, an occurrence of excessive sweating, sometimes to the point of soaking clothing and bedding. Various causes of night sweats exist for elderly people ranging from pre-existing medical conditions to nutritional deficiencies.
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Menopause
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The depletion of estrogen that women experience during menopause results in an over-stimulation of the sweat glands. This over-stimulation often leads to hot flashes and hyperhidrosis.
Mental Distress
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Anxiety and depression may also cause night sweats. These mental disorders are prevalent in the elderly communities as complications with aging become more severe.
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Hodgkin's Disease
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Nights sweats are a symptom of certain types of Hodgkin's disease found in elderly patients.
Tuberculosis
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Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) may result in night sweats, as well as fatigue and anorexia. Although, symptoms of pulmonary TB are not always typical in elderly patients. A 2007 Archives of Internal Medicine article has associated obesity in elderly patients with a lower risk of pulmonary TB.
Diabetes
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Diabetes is a commonly experienced condition in the senior community and may result in night sweats.
Medications
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Certain medications, such as fever reducers, may induce excessive sweating at night.
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References
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