Night sweats?

Hi guys,

Some of you may recognize me from before. I had a simple question for the Prevention forum, but was chastised for a poor choice of words (my mistake).

I have never been one to "symptom check," BUT I did have something peculiar happen to me recently. I had a normal, run-of-the-mill cold two weeks ago. It was actually one of the milder colds I've ever had, more of a head cold. Runny nose, no fever, no body aches, sneezy, coughing, sore throat. You get the picture. ANYWAY, on the last night of that cold (symptoms were gone, except for cough), I slept on the couch. I woke up DRENCHED in sweat and my body felt warm. These were not cold sweats, it felt like I had been sleeping in the sun. All around warm. I was going to dismiss it as wearing too many layers and my friend's house being hot, but even the couch was wet. It was mostly my head, shoulders, and back.  I did not have a fever that day or any other day (that I know of). The next day, I had intermittent vomiting (anxiety related -- long story). I haven't had any "night sweats" since.

This was exactly 3 weeks after possible exposure (heterosexual, condom break. I truly do try to practice safe sex all the time). Is the night sweats lasting for one day without fever cause for concern? I know forum is full of worried wells, and I am most likely one of them, unfortunately I made the mistake of googling "Night sweats no fever" and the first thing that pops up is .. well .. you know. I know this is more anxiety based than anything and I shouldn't be combing my body with a fine tooth comb, but I would like some input as I plan to be tested soon anyway as part of my yearly.

Thanks for any and all input. I truly appreciate the work you guys do here.

[SittingPretty12]

Oh, and no rash was present either, for what it's worth.

[joggen]

This forum does not discuss symptoms, because symptoms ARE NOT diagnostic of HIV infection.

[SittingPretty12]

Hi Joggen,

Thank you for responding. I understand the policy since discussing symptoms is very anxiety-inducing. I know night sweats are very non-specific and human beings have them from time to time, but I am extremely concerned about this one particular instance. I know my symptoms all together indicate a cold -- no more no less.

Should I be concerned about one night of night sweats? Or is it a cause for concern when it happens for more than one night? I am not disputing my symptoms or symptom shopping, BUT I would like your opinion since I have been finding so many conflicting documents on the web. Some say one night is no big deal, others day one night without fever is a HUGE deal. I'm not quite sure which to believe. Once (if) I know I shouldn't worry, I'll let it go. If I should worry, I'll check it out. Thanks for any input.

[joggen]

They mean nothing either way- get tested at 3 months to know your status.