Baton Rouge General’s Health Tip of the Week: Man, it’s hot in here!

July 1, 2026 - 12:50

Night sweats are not just a problem for women going through menopause. Nearly 45% of adults deal with them at some point, and men are often left wondering why they wake up soaked in the middle of the night. The answer is not always a warm bedroom or a heavy blanket.

One major cause is low testosterone. When levels drop, the body's natural thermostat gets thrown off. The hypothalamus, which controls body temperature, can misfire and tell the body to cool down even when it is not hot. This leads to sudden sweating and a racing heart. While this is common in older men, younger men can also experience it due to stress, poor sleep, or certain medications.

Other causes include infections, thyroid problems, or even anxiety. Some medications for depression or high blood pressure list night sweats as a side effect. In rare cases, it can signal something more serious like a sleep disorder or a hidden infection.

If you wake up sweating regularly, check your sleep environment first. Keep the room cool, avoid spicy food and alcohol before bed, and use breathable sheets. If the problem persists for weeks, talk to a doctor. A simple blood test can check hormone levels and rule out other issues. Sweating it out might be fine at the gym, but not in your bed.