[23F] Experiencing night sweats

Patient Description

A 23-year-old female has been experiencing severe night sweats almost every night for about a month, requiring a change of clothes. She has gained some weight recently. The patient started taking Lexapro and Wellbutrin three months before the onset of night sweats and has been on birth control pills for several years. The current dosages are 10mg of Lexapro and 150mg of Wellbutrin. She reports no other symptoms, no pre-existing conditions, and no use of recreational drugs or frequent alcohol consumption. She had a childhood reaction to Tamilflu but reports no other medication allergies. No new medications were started or changes in dosage around the time the night sweats began.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible explanations for your symptoms include:

  • Side effects of medication: Both Lexapro (an SSRI antidepressant) and Wellbutrin (an atypical antidepressant) are known to potentially cause night sweats. The fact that your symptoms started a few months after you began these medications could suggest a connection.

    • If this is the case, your doctor might consider adjusting the dose, switching to a different medication, or adding a medication to help manage this side effect.
  • Hormonal imbalances: As a young woman, hormonal imbalances can sometimes cause night sweats. This could be related to your menstrual cycle or to your use of birth control pills.

    • If this is the cause, your doctor might consider adjusting your birth control or recommending lifestyle changes to help manage your symptoms.
  • Stress or anxiety: Night sweats can also be a symptom of stress or anxiety, which could potentially be related to your need for antidepressant medications.

    • If this is the cause, your doctor might recommend stress management techniques, therapy, or adjustments to your current mental health treatment plan.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of all possible conditions, and having one of these conditions does not necessarily mean that it is the cause of your symptoms.

What you can do

In the meantime, here are some general suggestions that might help to alleviate your symptoms:

  1. Keep your bedroom cool and well-ventilated.
  2. Use lightweight, breathable bedding and pajamas.
  3. Stay hydrated, especially before bed.
  4. Avoid spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol, especially before bed, as these can all trigger night sweats.
  5. Try to manage stress and anxiety through techniques like meditation, deep breathing, yoga, or other forms of exercise.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe night sweats that persist or worsen
  • Night sweats accompanied by a high fever, unexplained weight loss, localized pain, cough, or diarrhea
  • Difficulty breathing or chest pain
  • Severe anxiety or feelings of depression

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate and helpful information, I'm not a doctor. Please consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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10 mo ago

People Also Ask


Can antidepressants like Lexapro and Wellbutrin cause night sweats?

Yes, both Lexapro and Wellbutrin can cause night sweats as a side effect. If you suspect your medication is causing night sweats, consult your doctor for possible adjustments.


How can hormonal imbalances lead to night sweats?

Hormonal imbalances, such as those related to the menstrual cycle or birth control use, can affect the body's temperature regulation, potentially leading to night sweats.


What lifestyle changes can help manage night sweats?

To manage night sweats, keep your bedroom cool, use breathable bedding, stay hydrated, and avoid triggers like spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol before bed. Stress management techniques like meditation or yoga can also help.


When should I seek medical attention for night sweats?

Seek medical attention if night sweats are severe, persistent, or accompanied by symptoms like high fever, unexplained weight loss, localized pain, cough, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, or chest pain.


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