Causes of Night Sweats in Men

Aug 08, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
Nighttime sweating (nocturnal diaphoresis) in men may result from conditions such as kidney yin deficiency, excessive bedding warmth, or liver yin deficiency. It can also be caused by calcium deficiency or excessive psychological stress. Prolonged engagement in strenuous physical labor or chronic states of tension and anxiety may lead to limb fatigue and kidney yin deficiency, accompanied by unexplained nocturnal sweating and other symptoms.

Many people have heard of night sweats, which are more common in men. Under normal circumstances, sweating helps protect the body and promotes metabolism. However, there are numerous potential causes of nocturnal sweating; what, then, are the reasons for night sweats in men?

Causes of Night Sweats in Men

Night sweats in men may result from kidney yin deficiency, excessively warm bedding, liver yin deficiency, calcium deficiency, or excessive psychological stress. Prolonged engagement in strenuous physical labor or chronic states of tension and anxiety can lead to physical fatigue and kidney yin deficiency, often accompanied by unexplained night sweats. Long-term malnutrition may also contribute to night sweats. A comprehensive medical evaluation is recommended to identify the underlying cause and guide targeted treatment. During therapy, consuming foods rich in calcium and protein is beneficial.

Night sweats in men can be managed through dietary adjustments and oral traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Since night sweats are primarily associated with kidney yin deficiency, consultation with a TCM practitioner is advised. Patients are encouraged to include black beans, soft-shelled turtle meat, and pigeon meat in their diet—foods known for their yin-nourishing properties, which help alleviate night sweats. Under a physician’s guidance, herbal formulas such as Dabuyin Wan (Great Yin-Enriching Pill), Zhibai Dihuang Wan (Anemarrhena–Phellodendron–Rehmannia Pill), Yupingfeng San (Jade Windscreen Powder), and Liuwei Dihuang Wan (Six-Ingredient Rehmannia Pill) may be prescribed to tonify the kidneys and relieve night sweat symptoms.

It is essential to incorporate regular physical exercise into daily life, cultivate healthy habits, avoid staying up late, maintain a balanced rhythm between work and rest, and prevent overexertion. We hope this information proves helpful to you.