A health specialist has cautioned that a frequently overlooked symptom of cancer often goes unnoticed during warmer weather.
As summer officially approaches later this month, the US is expected to experience a significant rise in temperatures.
While daytime sunbathing is enjoyable, the humid conditions can make nighttime sleep uncomfortable.
The prevalence of night sweats tends to rise during hot weather, but a medical professional has highlighted that recurring night sweats might indicate a serious health issue.
Dr. Suhail Hussain has pointed out that these sweats could signify leukaemia or lymphoma, both cancers affecting blood cells.
Leukaemia is mainly a cancer of the bone marrow, whereas lymphoma impacts the lymphatic system.
In an interview with the Express, Dr. Hussain stated: “Night sweats are a common phenomenon and one that’s far more likely to occur on hot, sticky nights.”
“But persistent or unexplained sweating during sleep shouldn’t be ignored—particularly if it happens alongside other symptoms like weight loss or fatigue.”
He emphasized that these symptoms should not simply be attributed to the heat outside.
The general practitioner also mentioned: “Night sweats can be a sign of something more serious, such as a serious infection, the menopause—or even cancer.”
“Sweats associated with cancer are normally drenching. You can wake up with your pyjamas and bed sheets wringing wet with sweat.”
Dr. Hussain advises those experiencing extreme night sweats regularly to consult with their GP.
He further explained: “Other rare cancers can also cause sweating. A group of cancers known as carcinoids affect hormonal function via the neuroendocrine system, and hence may result in excess sweating.”
“The bottom line is that if you feel like sweaty Betty or perspiring Pete and it’s going on a bit too long, then head over to your GP and get it checked out.”
Leukaemia Care provides various helpful resources on its website about night sweats and their potential link to cancer.
They advise booking a doctor’s appointment if you frequently experience night sweats that disturb your sleep. Additionally, it’s important to see a healthcare professional if you ‘wake up drenched in sweat, unable to cool down, even if your room is cool’.