3 Nighttime Symptoms That Could Indicate Serious Health Risks

Nighttime symptoms are often dismissed as simple aches and pains, but some recurring symptoms can indicate more serious health problems, such as cancer. Here are three key signs to watch for, especially if they persist:

1) Night sweats

Description:  Profuse sweating during sleep, often soaking clothes and sheets.

Possible causes:  Hormonal changes (e.g., menopause in women), infection, or fever. Even more worrying: certain malignant diseases, such as lymphoma, are known to cause night sweats.

When to act:  Consult a doctor if night sweats are frequent and accompanied by fever or weight loss.

2) Unexplained pain or discomfort

Description:  Persistent or recurring pain in certain parts of the body (e.g., back, joints) that is worse at night.

Possible causes:  musculoskeletal problems. Cancer can cause nerve compression or bone damage.

When to act:  Consult a doctor if pain is severe, disrupts sleep, or does not improve after taking over-the-counter medications.