I’m experiencing hot flushes and excessive sweating – what will help?
Sweating is a normal bodily function to regulate body temperature, but illness can cause it to become a distressing and troublesome symptom. Hot flushes vary from a mild feeling of warmth in the face, to sweating and palpitations and even drenching night sweats.
Excessive sweating or hot flushes can be very upsetting and tiring, especially if they disturb sleep. Causes vary, from side effects of medication, or hormone and cancer treatments to cancer itself. Below are some suggestions that may help:
Adapt the environment
Introduce a fan, particularly at night, to increase air flow. Reducing the humidity in the room with a dehumidifier may also help.
Consider clothing, bedding and diet choices
Wear moisture-wicking clothing made from synthetic materials to pull sweat away from your body and dress in layers so these can be removed as needed. Use natural fabrics, such as cotton, for bedding and again consider layers that can easily be taken off during the night.
Try to have regular cold drinks or ice chips rather than hot beverages. Avoiding alcohol and spicy foods can also help.
Seek further help
Complementary therapies, such as controlled breathing or yoga, may provide some relief. Your doctor or nurse may be able to adjust your medication or treatment or prescribe medication to help with sweating and hot flushes, although this will depend on what is causing them.
If sweating or hot flushes are new or persistent symptoms, seek advice from your doctor to exclude infection or other possible causes.
