Night sweats are a general symptom that may be caused by blood cancer. However, there are several other conditions that can also cause night sweats, and a full evaluation by a healthcare professional is necessary to determine the cause.1,2
Does blood cancer cause night sweats?
Night sweats occur when the body's temperature is increased, and the body begins to sweat to cool itself. Night sweats are generally characterized by their occurrence during sleep, as well as a drenching sweat that soaks a person's night clothing and bed sheets.1,2
Night sweats may occur along with fever and chills, two other general symptoms of blood cancer. Some types of cancer can cause fevers by releasing substances that act as toxins in the body.3
Other causes of night sweats
Besides some forms of blood cancer, night sweats may also be caused by an infection, changes in hormones, or as a side effect of cancer treatments, like chemotherapy.3