[46F] Experiencing excessive sweating during sleep with associated symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be contributing to your symptoms:

• Hyperhidrosis: This is a condition characterized by excessive sweating, even when the body doesn't need to cool off. It can occur during sleep (nocturnal hyperhidrosis), and can be generalized (all over the body) or localized (in specific areas). It's not clear why some people sweat excessively, but it can be related to other medical conditions, medications, or menopause.

  • Treatment options include prescription antiperspirants, medications, nerve-blocking medications, and in severe cases, surgery.

• Hyperthyroidism: This is a condition in which your thyroid gland produces too much of the hormone thyroxine. Hyperthyroidism can accelerate your body's metabolism, causing unintentional weight loss and a rapid or irregular heartbeat. It can also cause tremors, excessive sweating, and heat intolerance.

  • Treatment options include radioactive iodine, medications, and surgery.

• Menopause: This is the time that marks the end of your menstrual cycles. It's diagnosed after you've gone 12 months without a menstrual period. Menopause can happen in your 40s or 50s. It can cause hot flashes and night sweats.

  • Treatment options include hormone therapy, medications to help with symptoms, and lifestyle changes.

• Anxiety Disorders: Anxiety can cause physical symptoms like sweating, trembling, and fatigue. It's possible that your dreams are causing anxiety, which is leading to sweating.

  • Treatment options include psychotherapy (talk therapy), cognitive behavioral therapy, medications, and lifestyle changes.

• Side effects of medications: Some of the medications you're taking, such as Duloxetine and Lithium, can cause excessive sweating as a side effect.

  • If this is the case, your doctor might adjust the dose or switch you to a different medication.

What you can do

It's important to consult with your doctor about your symptoms. They can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary. In the meantime, here are some things you can do:

1. Keep a symptom diary: Write down when you have your sweating episodes, what you're doing at the time, and any other symptoms you're experiencing. This can help your doctor identify patterns and potential triggers.
2. Stay hydrated: Excessive sweating can lead to dehydration. Make sure you're drinking enough fluids throughout the day.
3. Wear breathable clothing: This can help keep your body cool and reduce sweating.
4. Practice good sleep hygiene: This includes going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, keeping your bedroom cool and dark, and avoiding caffeine and large meals before bed.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Chest pain or pressure
• Trouble breathing
• Fainting or loss of consciousness
• Confusion or trouble speaking
• Severe abdominal pain

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, diagnosis, and treatment.