The human body is highly intuitive and one should always give priority to listening to what it says as it always tells us through signs and symptoms whether there is anything wrong with our health or not. Among such signs we get, night sweats are usually ignored and considered the least important.
Many factors like hot room temperature, stress etc. can sometimes cause sweating during sleep, however, Dr. Aditi Shah Kaskar, Consultant Hematologist, Hemato Oncologist and BMT Physician, shared in an interview with HT Lifestyle that If you are experiencing continuous intense sweating. This may be your body’s way of telling you that there is something more serious involved. He explained in detail-
When does night sweats become worrying?
Many people experience night sweats occasionally, but when it happens frequently and clothes and sheets become drenched, it is important to pay attention. This is not your typical night sweats caused by thick blankets or a hot environment. Rather, they can also occur in cold areas and usually involve getting wet. If you frequently wake up to wet sheets and clothes, chances are there’s more going on than just the surroundings. This type of sweating can be more than uncomfortable and may be a warning sign of an underlying health problem such as lymphoma, a type of cancer.
Lymphoma: A Subtle But Deadly Condition
Lymphoma is a type of cancer that attacks lymphocytes, that is, white blood cells that your immune system needs. It starts in the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is a part of the immune system and is considered one of the key players that helps your body recover from illnesses and infections. It can also occur in many organs within the body, such as the spleen, bone marrow, and lymph nodes. Typically, it manifests its presence through fatigue, inexplicable weight loss and night sweats, which are usually ignored. In addition, associated symptoms such as fever, loss of appetite, swelling in the neck, armpits and inguinal region should not be ignored.
These cells reproduce uncontrollably, develop into tumors and spread to other parts of the body. This disease is often called a silent disease because its symptoms are minimal in the initial stages and can gradually progress later. Therefore, it becomes important to monitor every single mild sign of what your body is trying to tell you as this can help in early detection and treatment.
importance of early detection
Early detection increases the chances of survival. When someone experiences excessive night sweats along with other symptoms such as prolonged tiredness, swollen lymph nodes, or unexplained weight loss, medical care should be sought. Early detection makes a big difference during treatment. Never go against your intuition. It’s always better to be safe when something doesn’t seem right. Keep a symptom diary of the time and intensity of its occurrence. This information can help your doctor make the correct diagnosis. If you have frequent night sweats and intense sweating along with other symptoms, consult a doctor immediately.
Treatment and way forward
Upon consulting a doctor, they may suggest a physical examination, blood tests, or imaging scans to find out if lymphoma or another disease is the cause of your symptoms. Lymphoma can be treated with chemotherapy, CAR-T cell therapy, immunotherapy, bone marrow transplant, and radiation therapy. Medical professionals will decide what type of treatment is needed depending on the type of lymphoma.
Remember that your body knows when something is not right. Night sweats can not only be troublesome, but it can also be a serious indicator to seek medical attention. Seeking early intervention is essential for good health management; Thus, listen to your body and seek help when needed. If you feel concerned, follow your heart and don’t be afraid to consult a health care professional.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
