3. Some People Are More Predisposed to Night Sweats
A study published in Women’s Midlife Health found that night sweats tend to happen earlier and more intensely for Black women compared with white women.
While researchers aren’t clear on the exact cause, they argue that it is likely in part due to structural racism. Another study suggested that the “same genetic variants that help to predict reproductive aging are associated with frequency and severity of hot flashes.”
4. No One Knows the Exact Trigger for Menopausal Sweating
Night sweats are caused by declining estrogen levels, but the actual mechanism isn’t fully understood. It may have to do with estrogen’s effect on your hypothalamus, the part of your brain that helps control your body’s temperature. Fluctuations in your estrogen levels may reset your temperature center and trigger a drastic temperature increase in your body, followed by a dramatic attempt to cool itself down.
Regardless of the cause, this sharp temperature increase and decrease can be very uncomfortable and distressing.
5. Night Sweats Aren’t Always Caused by Menopause
Many nonhormonal issues can cause night sweats. These include things like infections, endocrine tumors, and anxiety. Night sweats can also be side effects of therapies such as pain relievers, narcotics, antidepressants, high blood pressure drugs, and diabetes medications.
If you’re experiencing night sweats, see a healthcare provider to establish the exact cause.
