Unintentional Weight Loss & Night Sweats

When unintentional weight loss and night sweats occur together, they may be symptoms of a more serious condition. If you are experiencing these symptoms, make an appointment with your doctor to find out what is causing the symptoms.

Weight Loss

Unintentional weight loss is most serious if you lose more than 5 percent of your body fat. This does not include water weight, so if you've been bloated or take water pills and have suddenly lost weight, you do not have as much to worry about. However, if you suspect your weight loss is a sign of another condition, you should see your doctor.

Night Sweats

There are many reasons people sweat at night. In fact, minor night sweats are relatively normal. Many people get night sweats during the summer, after having a nightmare, during menopause, or if they have sleep apnea. You should see your doctor if you have drenching night sweats, which means that you sweat so much that you need to change your night clothes or your bed sheets. These kinds of night sweats are abnormal and may be a sign of an underlying condition.

Possible Conditions

Many conditions could be the cause of unintentional weight loss and night sweats together. One is general anxiety. You may want to see a doctor about your anxiety in order to find out about techniques and medications that may help you.
Another condition commonly associated with weight loss and night sweats is hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid gland. Many cases of overactive thyroid glands are cured with medication.
Some conditions, such as flus, lymphoma or other tumors, and chronic infections, can cause weight loss and night sweats. You should see your doctor so that she can properly diagnose your infection and help you with a treatment plan.

Diagnosis

In order to diagnose a condition that causes unintentional weight loss and night sweats, you will need to see a physician. He will probably ask you about your symptoms and medical and family history, and you may be asked to take a physical exam.
Your doctor may run several tests, such as blood tests and X-rays, depending on what condition she thinks you may have. Once your doctor properly diagnoses your condition, the two of you can develop a treatment plan that will relieve your weight loss and night sweat symptoms.