Why Do I Have Night Sweats?

As we age, night sweats become increasingly common. They are generally caused by a hormonal imbalance, particularly a drop in testosterone. Although night sweats and hormonal imbalances are particularly common in women — especially during and after menopause – they affect both men and women.

Declining testosterone levels are one of the primary causes of night sweats. These levels decline with age in both males and females, and can cause a variety of symptoms, many of which are far more severe than night sweats. Consequently, anyone experiencing night sweats should see their doctor and confirm that this symptom is not indicative of something more serious.

Other conditions known to cause night sweats include:

• Several types of cancer
• Several cancer therapies, for example chemotherapy and radiation therapy
• Anxiety disorders
• Autoimmune disorders
• Substance abuse
• Severe infections
• Sleep disorders (people with sleep disorders are three times more likely to experience night sweats)
• Certain medications, such as antidepressants

In the previous generation replacement therapy (HRT) was commonly prescribed, particularly for women. Today, the risks associated with HRT have caused doctors to avoid prescribing it routinely.

Luckily, natural, commonsense lifestyle changes can be extremely effective in increasing testosterone levels.

Avoiding alcohol, engaging in physical activity (both aerobic and anaerobic), and maintaining a proper weight have both been shown to naturally increase testosterone levels in the body. In fact, studies show that physical activity affects testosterone levels more dramatically than any other single activity. Sleep also plays a major factor in maintaining healthy testosterone levels.

If night sweats interrupt our ability to sleep, it is important to see our doctors as soon as possible. If the problem is low testosterone, a testosterone patch may offer a temporary solution to the problem. But it comes with a risk. On the other hand, taking proper care of ourselves by exercising, eating a healthful diet, and getting a good night’s sleep provide numerous benefits , not just to our testosterone levels, but also to our general health —and have no negative side effects.

Although we cannot stop the process of aging, and consequently a decline in our testosterone levels, we can take steps to minimize this decline and to maximize our ability to enjoy a full and rich life well into our golden years.

At Laurel Bay Health and Rehabilitation Center, in the scenic beach town of Keansburg, NJ, our program includes attention to every aspect of care, including nutrition, physical fitness, and sleep hygiene. Our pledge is to provide superior health care services in the most compassionate way. We put in place individualized care plans, robust post-acute rehabilitation, and recreational activities for every one of our residents, whether they are short-term or long-term.

Our short-term rehabilitation program is designed to get our patients back to their optimal level of functioning and independence as quickly as possible, post hospitalization. We provide a tailored program of physical, occupational and speech therapy, as well as all types of specialized care under one roof.

We include our residents and families in the development and progress of their individualized care plan up until the day of their discharge, when we ensure their smooth transition back into the community.

Our long-term care program offers 24/7 skilled nursing care of the highest caliber for our residents. In addition to a varied selection of stimulating activities and recreational programs, our residents benefit from our specialty health services, exquisite dining and social services.

We offer specialized health services and programs for our residents suffering from Dementia and Alzheimer’s. This includes our sensory programs and activities provided in a secured environment.

Need a break to recharge? No problem. We provide an amazing Respite Care program with 24/7 medical services.

Read our reviews on senioradvisor.com, wellness.com, and caring.com to hear what our residents and their families have to say.

Or better yet, come see for yourself. Contact us to schedule a tour by clicking here or by calling (372) 787-8100.