What Causes Night Sweats in Men?

Jun 14, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
Night sweats in men may be associated with kidney deficiency, pulmonary tuberculosis, hyperthyroidism, and other causes. 1. Kidney deficiency: Caused by prolonged sleep deprivation (e.g., frequent late-night activity) or excessive sexual activity. 2. Pulmonary tuberculosis: Resulting from infection with *Mycobacterium tuberculosis*, which may severely weaken the body. 3. Hyperthyroidism: Linked to long-term unhealthy dietary habits and abnormal secretion of thyroid hormones.

Generally, night sweats in men may be associated with factors such as sleep environment, endocrine disorders, kidney deficiency, pulmonary tuberculosis, and hyperthyroidism. If symptoms cause discomfort, prompt medical consultation and treatment are recommended. A detailed analysis follows:

1. Sleep Environment

Poor sleep conditions—such as inadequate room ventilation or excessively high indoor temperatures—may contribute to night sweats in men. Opening windows for ventilation or using air conditioning to regulate room temperature before bedtime can improve the sleep environment and help reduce night sweats.

2. Endocrine Disorders

Male menopause (andropause) may lead to hormonal imbalances, resulting in overactive sweat glands and subsequent night sweats. Maintaining a calm mindset and engaging in regular physical exercise may help alleviate these symptoms.

3. Kidney Deficiency

Unhealthy lifestyle habits—such as chronic sleep deprivation due to frequent late-night activity or excessive sexual activity—may lead to kidney yin deficiency, manifesting as fatigue and night sweats. Ensuring adequate sleep, consuming kidney-nourishing foods, and moderating sexual activity frequency can effectively relieve these symptoms.

4. Pulmonary Tuberculosis

In individuals with compromised immunity, infection with *Mycobacterium tuberculosis* may lead to pulmonary tuberculosis, causing generalized weakness and night sweats, often accompanied by fatigue and decreased appetite. Under physician guidance, anti-tuberculosis medications—including rifampicin tablets, isoniazid tablets, and pyrazinamide tablets—may be prescribed to effectively combat the bacteria and promote clinical improvement.

5. Hyperthyroidism

Long-term unhealthy dietary habits—particularly excessive intake of iodine-rich foods or medications—may disrupt thyroid hormone secretion, leading to hyperthyroidism. This condition may present with night sweats, palpitations, and tachycardia. Treatment may include antithyroid medications such as propylthiouracil tablets or methimazole tablets, administered per physician instructions. (Note: Pyrazinamide is not used for hyperthyroidism; this appears to be an error in the original text.)

In daily life, a light, easily digestible diet should be prioritized to ensure adequate nutritional intake. Foods rich in protein and vitamins—such as eggs, lean meat, and spinach—are especially beneficial for replenishing essential nutrients and supporting overall health.