Continuous night sweats could be an early warning sign of cancer: Understanding symptoms, causes and when to seek medical advice |
Cancer is a serious and complex disease, encompassing more than 200 different types, each with its own set of symptoms. Detecting cancer early is crucial for improving treatment outcomes, yet many warning signs are subtle and easily missed. One such symptom is night sweats, which often go unnoticed or are dismissed as a normal response to heat or stress. However, persistent or unexplained night sweating can sometimes signal underlying health issues, including certain cancers. It occurs as the body reacts to infections, hormonal changes, or the disease itself. Recognising unusual patterns in sweating, especially when accompanied by other symptoms like fatigue, unexplained weight loss, or fever, can help prompt timely medical evaluation and early intervention.
Night sweats as a warning sign: Understanding causes and linked cancers
Night sweats are episodes of excessive perspiration during sleep that can leave your clothes and bedding soaked. While it is normal to sweat if the room is warm or your bedding is heavy, night sweats are considered abnormal when they occur in a cool environment and are persistent. These episodes can be a sign that something is affecting your body’s normal temperature regulation.Medical professionals note that infection is a frequent trigger for sweating in cancer patients because the body attempts to lower elevated temperatures. Certain cancers can also directly cause heavy perspiration. The types of cancer most commonly associated with night sweats include:
- Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
- Hodgkin lymphoma
- Carcinoid tumours
- Leukaemia
- Mesothelioma
- Bone cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Germ cell tumours
- Advanced medullary thyroid cancer
In many cases, night sweats appear alongside other symptoms. Recognising these patterns is essential for early diagnosis.According to the study published in The Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine, the review systematically examines various studies to understand the underlying causes, associated conditions, and potential implications of night sweats. It highlights that while night sweats can sometimes be benign, they may also indicate underlying health issues, including infections, hormonal imbalances, and certain cancers. The study emphasises the importance of recognising night sweats as a symptom that warrants medical attention, particularly when they occur persistently or are accompanied by other concerning signs such as unexplained weight loss, fever, or fatigue. Early evaluation can aid in timely diagnosis and treatment.
Other warning signs of cancer
Night sweats are rarely the only symptom. Other red flags to watch for include:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent fatigue or exhaustion
- Unusual growths or lumps
- Unexplained bleeding
- Ongoing bloating
- Skin changes such as new moles or colour changes
It is important to know what is normal for your body and to raise any concerns with your GP if you notice changes. Early consultation can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
When to seek medical advice
You should contact a GP if you notice:
- Night sweats that regularly wake you or leave you concerned
- Night sweats accompanied by a high temperature, shivers, cough, or diarrhoea
- Night sweats along with unexplained weight loss
While night sweats do not automatically indicate cancer, they can signal an underlying health problem that warrants attention.
Preventive and monitoring measures
Keeping track of unusual symptoms is an important step in early detection. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, staying hydrated, managing stress, and having regular medical check-ups can help detect potential problems earlier. Monitoring your body and being proactive about changes gives you the best chance of identifying serious conditions before they become severe.Also Read | ‘Heart failure is more common than you think’: Cardiologist reveals signs and symptoms to detect early and prevention tips
