I sweat a great deal!

Dear Yemisi,

I am a 78-year-old man. I have been sweating profusely for some years now, even when there is cold.

When I sleep at night the heat waves wake me up.

I have in the past consulted many doctors, went through several tests, yet there is no relief.

Please, help me.

Moses, 0*05******0.

Dear Sir, since you said you have been to the hospital several times and it appears there are no remarkable changes, I will advise you review your prescriptions well if you have not followed to the letter what you were asked to do.

Naturally as women experience menopausal changes so also men do. At 78, you are not getting younger and you cannot expect your system to remain as it was some 30 years ago. It rests on you to take time to study what triggers it off so as to know how to tackle it.

From readings, some medications are said to cause heavy sweating at night especially if you are on any of the antidepressants. Drugs and medicine such as aspirin and acetaminophen which lower fever can cause sweating.

If you are diabetic, you cannot rule out night sweat due to night time hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Diabetic patients who are using either insulin (diabetic type 2 patients) or oral medications for diabetes can end up with cold night sweats due to them developing hypoglycemia at night.

If you are a lover of alcohol, it affects your circulatory system, central nervous system and every other part of your body. It also raises heartbeat rate and makes your blood vessels much wider. All this could trigger body perspiration.

It could also be a result of prolonged stress, anxiety and depression.

Bathe daily, change your socks often, ensure your feet are always dry, and consider wearing appropriate clothing. This can reduce body heating and consequently night sweats. Breathable, bed sheets and night clothes made from natural fibre are often recommended.

Furthermore, ensure you get adequate daily exercise, manage your weight and eat about two to three hours before you go to sleep.