Night sweats

Hi, for the past week or so I have been treated by my doctor for prostatitis with Cipro.  In the meantime, I have begun to develop what I think is a sinus infection just after having a cold. Painful jaw and teeth, sinus pressure under my eyes, itchy ears, and mildly swollen (tingly) lymph nodes below my jawline.  In addition, I have woken up a couple of nights sweating.  Not drenched, but my body is moist and I feel both hot and cold at once. All of this has caused me great anxiety and I've panicked over it .. losing sleep, stressing during the day, etc.  My question is: could the night sweating and waking up have anything to do with whatever sinus (or upper respiratory) infection I've had?  In the past day or so, the sinuses have begun to feel a little better (tension in the jaw and teeth pain relieved, and lymph nodes feel less tingly).  I'm thinking this is due to the Cipro.  But these intermittent sweating episodes at night are concerning me, and I would like your advice on whether or not I should be concerned, given the rest of my symptoms.  I know I need to get to my doctor, but I am traveling this week.  Thank you for your help.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Any type of infecton, whether it is prostatitis or sinusitis, can lead to night sweats.  

If the sweats continue even after the other infections have resolved, you may want to look elsewhere.  

Blood cultures (possibly looking for endocarditis), a PPD test for TB, and a workup for lymphoma and other cancers can lead to other causes of night sweats.  

You can also consider a workup of thyroid disorders (via a simple blood test).

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_b

[distressed1]

Forgot to mention:  only fever was a week ago, and it was slight.  No weight loss.