A health expert has warned that night sweating could be the result of an underlying health issue.
Dr Zoe Williams joined This Morning to explain the unknown problems night sweating can create, noting it could have a direct impact on life expectancy. The main difference between normal sweating and night sweats is the extent and duration as night sweats are prevalent regardless of temperature.
She explained night sweats will leave you "completely soaking" and can be experienced "even if you're having them in a cool environment." Though people may experience it at different levels, she said it should be taken seriously as it may be a sign of serious health issues.
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She said: "With infections and fevers, the most common symptom [is sweating]. More dangerous bacterial infections include tuberculosis, infections of the heart, bones, or abscesses that can cause night sweats and a really important one to talk about is menopause. The most common symptoms are night sweats and changes in your period."
Dermot asked if there are repercussions of enduring night sweats, which Dr Zoe confirmed. She warned, if people are not able to get enough sleep, it may have a direct impact on their life expectancy. She said: "As human beings, we need sleep. We can't survive without it.
"An occasional bad night we're designed to cope with but it can be really detrimental if it's continuous. You can start feeling bad, low concentration, you cant exercise... but long term, it can increase your risk of metabolic diseases so if you have poor sleep throughout your life it can affect your life expectancy."
Alison asked if a lack of vitamins plays a role and if so, what can people do to manage this. Dr Zoe said: "B12 helps look after red blood cells and if you're deficient, it could cause drenching night sweats. It's difficult to maintain your B12 if you're vegan, for example, but there are so many different ways to battle it, including vitamins."
She further explained those suffering from more serious night sweats may have to undergo blood tests or x-rays to get a full diagnosis of what the underlying issue is. Anxiety and other emotional health concerns, including stress or panic attacks, could also be responsible for the problem.
Dr Zoe urged people to reach out to their GPs if, at any point, they feel like there may be an issue. She noted people may be apprehensive given the "crammed state of the NHS" but said health is more important than worrying in silence.
She added: "A lot of people, really good people, don't want to trouble their GP but a lot of the calls we deal with are minor things. Never feel like your issue is too minor so please get in touch as it may be something more serious."
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