Night sweats are hot flashes that you have while you sleep. They are often bad enough to wake you up. This can make you feel tired and irritable, and it can make it difficult to concentrate during the day.¹

Night sweats can also put stress on a relationship if your partner's sleep is disturbed.

Other things, such as a bad infection, can cause night sweats, so it's important to talk with your doctor if you are having them.

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved.