Sleep hyperhidrosis or night sweats in children can be due to various reasons. It is more common on warm days or when they wear heavy clothes, and thus there is no need to worry. However, if your child is sweating more than usual without any climatic or other reasons, you may seek a pediatrician consultation. Moreover, some health conditions such as hormonal issues and infections can cause night sweats in children. So, read on to know the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and tips to prevent night sweats in children.
Possible Causes Of Night Sweats In Children And Teens
There are numerous reasons behind the occurrence of night sweats in children. Here we have listed a few possible reasons, besides excess clothing and heat that might cause night sweats in children. While night sweating itself is a symptom of some health condition, there could be other symptoms to indicate that the child is unwell.
Symptoms And Diagnosis Of Night Sweats In Children
Along with night sweating, some children may have symptoms such as a fever, cough, discomfort while sleeping, and breathing issues. If these prolong for a long while, then take your child to the doctor. A physician can diagnose the cause of night sweats based on the child’s medical history, physical examination, and overall health. Parents can take some measures at home to make a child with night sweats feel comfortable.
How To Help Your Child Deal With Night Sweat?
The following steps may help the child feel better and stop the night sweating.
Keep the temperature of the room cooler. You may switch on the fan or keep the windows open. or switch on the AC at comfortable temperature You may keep an ice pack under the pillow of your child if the weather is hot. A cold shower before sleeping may help. Drinking cold water can keep the body hydrated and may help maintain body temperature. Avoiding spicy food before sleeping may help maintain body temperature. Apply a wet cloth on the forehead of the child during the night. Image: Shutterstock You may get a cool mattress for your child and replace heavy bed sheets and comforters with light ones.
If the child seems unwell or the night sweating continues to be in excess, then consult a physician. In the next section, we address a few common questions asked about night sweating in children.
