Fatigue accompanied by these two common nighttime symptoms could be a sign of cancer, according to a doctor. Nighttime should be a time of rest, recovery, and a soothing break from our hectic daily lives. However, the body sometimes uses this time to send subtle but important signals. Extreme fatigue upon waking, unusual night sweats, or constant aches and pains? According to the specialist, these often-underestimated symptoms sometimes deserve special attention.

Many people have experienced restless nights after a period of stress, overeating, or a cold. These symptoms are usually benign, but when they appear for no apparent reason and recur, it’s time to pay attention to your body’s signals. Dr. Gerald Kerzek reminds us not to worry about even the slightest nighttime discomfort, but rather when the symptoms are prolonged and intense. Two of these symptoms, in particular, may indicate a more serious condition.

Night sweats shouldn’t be ignored! If you wake up sweating and have to change your sheets or clothes for no apparent reason (no fever, normal room temperature), you should pay special attention. According to Dr. Kerzek, significant night sweats can be an early manifestation of certain types of cancer, such as lymphomas, certain leukemias, or neuroendocrine tumors. These diseases initially develop discreetly, making symptoms difficult to identify. Of course, there are other causes of sweating—menopause or temporary disorders—but if they recur night after night for no apparent reason, it’s important to see a doctor.