NIGHT SWEATS
AND
FEVERS
Almost without exception every one of us will have had a fever at some time associated with heavy sweats. Sometimes we will feel very hot, sometimes very cold and may shiver intensely (rigors). Commonly this is due to the 'flu or other infections such as tonsillitis or chest or urine infections. Sometimes these symptoms may be much less acute but go on for days or even weeks. In women between 35 and 55 sweats and "hot flushes" may be related to the hormonal changes of the menopause, sometimes pre-dating actual menstrual irregularities and sometimes persisting a considerable time after periods have ceased completely (post-hysterectomy patients may be less likely to associate the symptoms with the menopause - especially if the onset is a long time after their operation). A simple blood test can usually confirm the menopausal state and HRT, if suitable, makes inroads into the symptoms and often clears them completely leaving no doubt as to the diagnosis.
In men (always) and women (sometimes) there may be another explanation and sometimes this may be the sign of chronic infection or other chronic illness. This symptom should always be checked out but it would be helpful to the doctor if before consulting you document when the sweats occur and if you have access to a thermometer and can take your own temperature during attacks and at other times this would be even more helpful. A fever which persists or keeps recurring is never normal and is the indication for further tests which may even require inpatient admission so that blood can be taken during the attacks.