Expert reveals why you sweat during sleep …  and how you can stop it

With the nights turning warmer, sweating during sleep can be a source of major discomfort and prevent you from having a good nights sleep.

Sleep expert Andrea Strand from Eachnight Mattresses explains why you sweat during sleep and how to prevent and treat it.

Why do I sweat during my sleep?

Sweating during sleep is a common occurrence and happens for mainly two reasons. The first is your environment. Whilst it’s enjoyable to snuggle under a heavy blanket or wear warm pyjamas, these things can often lead to waking up in the middle of the night covered in sweat. Another reason is underlying medical issues.

The Mayo Clinic have listed numerous factors that can contribute to those unwanted night sweats, including hormone disorders, sleep apnea, anxiety and viral infections to name but a few.

Is there an optimum temperature to sleep in to keep me cool?

For an improved sleeping environment, the ideal temperature to turn your thermostat to is between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius. Additionally, adding a cooling mattress topper or switching to a lighter and more breathable bedding with moisture-wicking material can vastly cool down your bed.

If this is not cool enough for you, you can always place a cool pack under your pillow to lower your body temperature and stop the sweating.

Are there any lifestyle changes I can make that could prevent sweating during the night?

Yes, there are! Avoid eating a large meal at least two to three hours before sleeping. This means your digestive system won’t be working after your fall asleep, allowing your body to rest more. Avoiding spicy foods and caffeine at night can also be a great way to beat the night-time sweats.

Caffeine is a stimulant and can increase your heart rate, leading to a raise in blood pressure which can activate sweat glands.

When should I be concerned about night sweats?

If your night sweats get to the point that you begin to experience daytime fatigue as a result of lost sleep from sweating, it’s time to see a doctor.

If you have been sweating consistently for two weeks or more with no signs of it getting better, that’s also when you should consider seeking professional help.

Can stress lead to sweating at night?

Yes, it can. Whether it is stress due to recurring bad dreams, or general anxiety,  stress is a hormonal issue which can lead to sweating.

Doing activities such as yoga and meditation before bedtime is a great way to reduce stress and calm the mind, however if stress persists, seek professional help.