If you've ever woken up feeling groggy, even after what seemed like a full night's sleep, you might have wondered if something is going on with your sleep. For millions of people, the answer is sleep apnea—a serious condition that causes breathing to repeatedly stop and start during the night. Until now, most treatments for sleep apnea have involved devices like CPAP machines or lifestyle changes like weight loss. But in a major medical breakthrough, the FDA has just approved Zepbound as the first medication specifically for sleep apnea.

This approval is a big deal, not just for scientists and doctors, but for everyday people who struggle with getting quality sleep. In this article, we'll break down what Zepbound is, how it works, why it matters, and what you should know if you're living with sleep apnea or think you might be.

Zepbound is the brand name for tirzepatide, a medication originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes and, later, obesity. If the name sounds familiar, it might be because you've heard of Mounjaro or Wegovy — similar drugs that also help people manage blood sugar and lose weight.

Tirzepatide belongs to a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists, but it's a bit more advanced. Zepbound actually works on two hormone pathways in your body: GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide). Both of these hormones are naturally produced in your gut and play a role in controlling appetite, blood sugar, and metabolism.

By activating these hormones, Zepbound helps people feel fuller faster, eat less, and lose weight. While that might sound like just another weight loss drug, here's where things get interesting: researchers discovered that as people lost weight on Zepbound, their sleep apnea symptoms improved. That unexpected benefit is what eventually led to Zepbound being studied and is now officially approved as a treatment for sleep apnea.

To understand how Zepbound helps with sleep apnea, it's important to know how weight and sleep are connected. One of the most common forms of sleep apnea is called obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This happens when the muscles in your throat relax too much during sleep, causing your airway to become blocked.

Excess weight—especially around the neck and upper body—puts extra pressure on the airway. This makes it more likely to collapse or become obstructed when you lie down. In fact, studies show that more than 70% of people with obstructive sleep apnea are overweight or obese. That means losing even a small amount of weight can lead to big improvements in breathing and sleep quality.

Unfortunately, losing weight isn't always easy. Many people with sleep apnea also have conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or metabolic issues that make weight loss especially difficult. That's where a medication like Zepbound can make a meaningful difference.

So, how exactly does Zepbound help with sleep apnea? The answer lies in both its ability to reduce weight and its direct effect on sleep-related symptoms. The FDA based its approval on a series of clinical trials, including one called the SURMOUNT-OSA Study. This large, well-controlled study looked at how people with both obesity and sleep apnea responded to tirzepatide over time.

Participants who took Zepbound experienced significant weight loss, with many losing more than 15% of their body weight. More importantly, their apnea-hypopnea index (AHI)—a number used to measure the severity of sleep apnea—also dropped considerably. Fewer breathing interruptions meant better sleep, more oxygen getting to the brain, and fewer health risks overall.

Interestingly, the improvements in sleep apnea were seen even in people who were already using CPAP machines. That means Zepbound doesn't have to replace CPAP therapy, but can be used alongside it to boost results. It also opens the door for people who can't tolerate CPAP to have another treatment option.

Now that the FDA has approved Zepbound for sleep apnea, what does that actually mean for you or someone you care about?

First, it's important to understand who qualifies. Zepbound is approved for adults who have moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea and a BMI of 30 or higher. This makes it a good fit for people whose sleep apnea is linked to excess weight.

Doctors might recommend Zepbound as an add-on to existing treatments, like CPAP, or as a new option for patients who haven't had success with other approaches. That said, it's not a magic pill. You’ll still need regular check-ins with your doctor, and you’ll need to be mindful of diet, exercise, and other health goals.

As for insurance coverage, that's still evolving. Some insurance plans may cover it right away, especially if you have a diagnosis of sleep apnea and obesity. Others might take more time or require additional paperwork. If you’re considering it, it’s worth calling your insurance provider or asking your doctor’s office for help navigating the process.

Potential Side Effects and Safety Concerns

As with any medication, Zepbound comes with some potential side effects. The most common ones are digestive issues, such as:

Most of these symptoms tend to go away as your body adjusts, but some people may need to stop the medication if the side effects are too bothersome.

There are also some more serious but rare risks to be aware of. These include:

Thyroid tumors (including a type called medullary thyroid carcinoma)

Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)

Because of these risks, Zepbound isn’t recommended for people with a personal or family history of certain types of thyroid cancer. Your doctor will help you weigh the risks and benefits based on your medical history.

The response from the medical community has been mostly positive. Sleep experts are excited about having a new tool to help patients who haven’t had much success with traditional treatments. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM), Zepbound offers “a promising new option” for managing obstructive sleep apnea in people with obesity.

That said, many doctors are also urging caution. Zepbound should be seen as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, not a standalone solution. It works best when combined with other strategies, like CPAP therapy, weight management, and good sleep hygiene.

Some experts also point out that this approval marks an important shift in how we think about sleep apnea. Rather than focusing only on mechanical fixes (like CPAP), we're starting to look at the condition as a whole-body issue that involves hormones, metabolism, and lifestyle.

Zepbound vs. Wegovy, Ozempic, and Other Weight Loss Drugs

You might be wondering how Zepbound stacks up against other popular medications like Wegovy or Ozempic, especially since they all seem to do similar things. While all of these drugs help with weight loss and blood sugar control, there are some important differences.

Zepbound works on two hormone receptors (GLP-1 and GIP), whereas Ozempic and Wegovy work on just one (GLP-1). This dual action may make Zepbound more effective for some people, especially when it comes to weight loss and improving metabolic function.

Also, Zepbound is the only one currently approved specifically for treating sleep apnea. That means if sleep apnea is your main concern, Zepbound is uniquely positioned to address it. Still, your doctor will consider your full health picture before recommending one medication over another.

Is Zepbound Right for You? Questions to Ask Your Doctor

If you’re curious about whether Zepbound could help you, the best place to start is with a conversation with your healthcare provider. Here are some questions that can help guide that discussion:

Do I have obstructive sleep apnea, and how severe is it?

What treatments have I tried so far, and how well have they worked?

Is my weight contributing to my sleep apnea?

Could a medication like Zepbound improve my sleep and overall health?

What are the potential risks based on my personal medical history?

You might also need to undergo a sleep study if you haven’t already. This can help confirm a diagnosis of sleep apnea and give your doctor more information about your condition.

Takeaway: A Promising New Tool in the Fight Against Sleep Apnea

The FDA approval of Zepbound as the first medication for sleep apnea marks a major milestone in sleep medicine. For people struggling with both obesity and sleep apnea, this new treatment offers hope for better sleep, improved health, and a higher quality of life.

While Zepbound isn’t a cure and it’s not for everyone, it does represent a powerful new option in a space that hasn’t seen much innovation in decades. If you or someone you love is living with sleep apnea, especially if other treatments haven’t worked, it might be worth talking to your doctor about whether Zepbound is a good fit.

After all, sleep is more than just rest. It’s the foundation for everything else—your energy, your mood, your health. And with tools like Zepbound, getting better sleep might finally be within reach.

Do I still need to use a CPAP machine if I take Zepbound?

That depends on your individual condition. Zepbound may reduce the severity of your sleep apnea and lower your AHI, but some patients may still benefit from using a CPAP or other sleep apnea therapies. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan.

Is Zepbound covered by insurance for sleep apnea?

Insurance coverage may vary depending on your provider and location. Now that the FDA has approved Zepbound for sleep apnea, it’s more likely that insurance companies will begin to cover it for that use, especially if you meet the criteria (such as having obesity).

Can someone without obesity use Zepbound for sleep apnea?

Currently, the FDA approval is for adults with both OSA and obesity. If you do not have obesity, Zepbound is not approved for sleep apnea treatment. However, researchers may continue exploring its benefits in other populations in future studies.

How is Zepbound different from CPAP or other traditional treatments?

Zepbound works by helping you lose weight and improve your body’s metabolic function. Traditional treatments like CPAP focus on mechanically keeping your airway open during sleep. Zepbound addresses one of the root causes—excess weight—rather than just treating the symptoms.

How long does it take for Zepbound to work for sleep apnea?

In clinical trials, patients began seeing improvements in sleep apnea symptoms within a few months as they lost weight. The most significant results were seen at 52 weeks of treatment. Results can vary depending on how much weight you lose and how your body responds to the drug.

Can I get Zepbound if I already take it for diabetes or weight loss?

Possibly. If you have been prescribed Zepbound for diabetes or weight management and also have sleep apnea, your doctor may discuss how it could benefit your condition. However, specific use for OSA should follow the new FDA guidelines.

They both contain tirzepatide, but they’re approved for different uses. Mounjaro is primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes, while Zepbound is approved for chronic weight management and now obstructive sleep apnea. They share the same active ingredient but are marketed under different brand names.

The FDA just approved Zepbound to treat sleep apnea in adults with obesity. Learn how it works, who it's for, and what it means for better sleep and weight loss.

Zepbound Approved for Sleep Apnea: First FDA-Approved Pill

Kenya Bass, PA-C

Zepbound: First FDA-Approved Medication for Sleep Apnea—How It Works and What It Means for You

Sleep isn't just downtime for your body. It's one of the most important things you can do to keep your metabolism running smoothly. When you don't get enough sleep, it doesn't just make you groggy and grumpy—it can seriously mess with your hormones, blood sugar levels, appetite, and even your long-term risk of metabolic disease.

In this article, we’ll break down what really happens inside your body when you’re sleep-deprived and how that affects your ability to manage your weight, energy, and overall health. Don’t worry—we’ll keep it simple and science-backed, and by the end, you’ll have a few practical tips to start getting better sleep and protecting your metabolic health.

Why Sleep and Metabolism Are Closely Linked

Let’s start with a simple question: What is metabolism?

Your metabolism is the process your body uses to turn food into energy. It involves a complex network of hormones, enzymes, and chemical reactions that help regulate everything from your blood sugar and fat storage to how hungry you feel.

Now here’s the kicker—your body relies on good sleep to keep your metabolism in balance. When you consistently don’t get enough sleep, your body starts to fall apart on the inside. The hormones that regulate hunger, fat storage, blood sugar, and even muscle recovery all get disrupted.

In short, poor sleep equals poor metabolism.

What Happens to Your Body When You Don’t Sleep Enough

Missing a few hours of sleep here and there may not seem like a big deal. But even one night of sleep deprivation can throw your body off track.

When you’re sleep-deprived, your body starts producing more cortisol, the stress hormone, which increases blood sugar levels and makes your body store fat, especially around your belly. Your cells also become less sensitive to insulin, the hormone that helps move sugar from your blood into your cells. That means higher blood sugar and more fat storage.

At the same time, your hunger hormones get out of whack. Leptin, which helps you feel full, goes down. Ghrelin, which makes you feel hungry, goes up. The result? You feel hungry even when you’ve had enough to eat.

And that’s not all. Your resting energy expenditure—basically, how many calories you burn doing nothing—also drops. You burn fewer calories, feel more tired, and crave more food.

It’s like your body is trying to conserve energy because it thinks something’s wrong.

Sleep Loss and Weight Gain: The Hidden Link

If you’ve ever tried to lose weight but struggled despite eating healthy and exercising, your sleep could be the missing piece.

Numerous studies have shown a strong connection between short sleep duration and weight gain. In fact, people who sleep less than 6 hours a night are more likely to be overweight or obese compared to those who sleep 7 to 9 hours.

Well, let’s think about what happens when you’re tired.

You're more likely to skip your morning workout. You reach for sugary coffee drinks and snacks to stay awake. You’re more likely to eat late at night. And since your hormones are off balance, you’re also more likely to overeat—even if you’re not actually hungry.

And guess what? Sleep-deprived people don’t just eat more—they also tend to eat worse. Studies have shown they consume more calories from processed carbs, sugar, and unhealthy fats.

So even if you’re doing everything else “right,” not getting enough sleep can sabotage your efforts to maintain a healthy weight.

The Insulin-Sleep Connection: What It Means for Your Blood Sugar

One of the most important things to understand about sleep and metabolism is how they affect insulin.

Insulin is a hormone that helps your body use glucose (sugar) from food for energy. When your insulin sensitivity is good, your body can move glucose into your cells efficiently. But when it drops, your blood sugar stays high, and your body stores more fat.

Sleep deprivation has been shown to reduce insulin sensitivity, even in healthy young adults. One study found that just four nights of restricted sleep led to a 30% drop in insulin sensitivity. That’s a huge deal.

Over time, chronically poor sleep can lead to insulin resistance, which is one of the first steps toward developing prediabetes and type 2 diabetes.

And you don’t need to have a sleep disorder for this to happen. Just consistently getting 5 to 6 hours of sleep a night is enough to create metabolic issues.

So if you’re struggling with blood sugar or have a family history of diabetes, improving your sleep may be one of the easiest—and most effective—ways to lower your risk.

How Inflammation Rises When You Lose Sleep

There’s another sneaky way that sleep deprivation affects your metabolic health, by increasing inflammation.

Inflammation is your body’s natural response to injury or illness, but when it becomes chronic, it can do serious damage. Chronic inflammation is linked to heart disease, obesity, insulin resistance, and even Alzheimer’s disease.

When you don’t get enough sleep, your body releases more inflammatory chemicals like C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). These markers go up even after one night of poor sleep.

Over time, this low-grade inflammation adds stress to your organs and tissues, including the ones that regulate metabolism like the liver, pancreas, and muscles.

Think of inflammation like rust on the inside of your body—it builds up slowly, but it can cause a lot of long-term damage.

How Poor Sleep Affects Hunger and Cravings

If you’ve ever found yourself raiding the fridge late at night after a bad night’s sleep, there’s a biological reason for it.

Sleep directly impacts two key hormones that control appetite: leptin and ghrelin.

Leptin is the hormone that tells your brain you’re full. Ghrelin is the hormone that tells your brain you’re hungry.

Leptin levels go down (you don’t feel full)

Ghrelin levels go up (you feel extra hungry)

As a result, your body starts craving high-calorie, high-carb foods for quick energy. Researchers have found that people who are sleep-deprived eat significantly more snacks and consume more sugar and processed carbs.

Your brain also becomes more sensitive to food rewards, which means you’re more likely to reach for that donut even if you normally wouldn’t.

In short, poor sleep makes healthy eating harder, not because you lack willpower, but because your hormones are working against you.

Why Your Body Clock (Circadian Rhythm) Matters

It’s not just how much sleep you get—it’s also when you sleep that matters.

Your body has an internal clock called the circadian rhythm, which helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle, hormone levels, body temperature, and metabolism. When your circadian rhythm is disrupted, like from shift work, jet lag, or staying up late, it throws your entire system out of sync.

Studies show that people who sleep during the day and are awake at night (like night shift workers) have a higher risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Even if they sleep the same number of hours, sleeping at the “wrong” time can still have negative effects.

That’s because your body expects certain things, like meals and rest, at certain times. Eating late at night, for example, can interfere with how your body processes food and stores fat.

So ideally, try to keep a consistent sleep schedule, going to bed and waking up around the same time every day—even on weekends.

Who’s Most at Risk From Sleep-Related Metabolic Issues?

While everyone needs good sleep for a healthy metabolism, some groups are more vulnerable to the effects of sleep deprivation.

Teens and young adults often have irregular sleep patterns and late bedtimes, especially with school or social media distractions. This puts them at risk for weight gain and insulin resistance even at a young age.

People with sleep disorders like insomnia or sleep apnea may not get restful sleep, even if they spend enough time in bed. Sleep apnea in particular is strongly linked to metabolic issues, including obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Women in perimenopause and menopause may experience disrupted sleep due to hormonal changes, night sweats, or anxiety—putting them at increased risk for metabolic problems.

Busy professionals or caregivers who sacrifice sleep to meet demands of work or family may think they’re being productive—but it comes at a hidden cost to their health.

If you fall into one of these categories, paying attention to sleep is even more important.

7 Simple Ways to Improve Sleep and Support Your Metabolism

Now that you know how important sleep is, how can you improve it?

Here are some simple, science-backed strategies:

Stick to a sleep schedule. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps reset your body clock.

Create a wind-down routine. Try calming activities before bed like reading, taking a warm shower, or listening to relaxing music.

Limit screen time. Blue light from phones and TVs can block melatonin, the hormone that makes you sleepy. Try turning off screens an hour before bed.

Watch your caffeine. Avoid coffee or energy drinks in the afternoon or evening—they can stay in your system for hours.

Keep your bedroom cool and dark. Ideal sleep temperature is around 65°F (18°C). Use blackout curtains if needed.

Exercise regularly. Just 30 minutes of moderate activity during the day can help you fall asleep faster.

Avoid heavy meals and alcohol late at night. These can disrupt your sleep and digestion.

Even making small improvements in your sleep can lead to noticeable changes in your energy, appetite, and weight.

Final Thoughts: Sleep Is Your Metabolic Superpower

If you care about your metabolism, your weight, your blood sugar, or your energy levels—then sleep should be at the top of your priority list.

Sleep is not optional. It’s not a luxury. It’s one of the most powerful tools your body has for healing, restoring balance, and keeping your metabolism humming along.

By getting enough good-quality sleep on a consistent basis, you’re not just avoiding grogginess—you’re protecting your long-term health in a very real and measurable way.

So tonight, instead of staying up for one more episode or scrolling a little longer, remember this: your metabolism will thank you for choosing sleep.

Not getting enough sleep? Discover how it messes with your metabolism, weight, blood sugar, and hunger—and what to do to fix it. Backed by science.

How Sleep Deprivation Destroys Metabolism (Backed by Science)

Dr. Jossy Onwude, MD

How Sleep Deprivation Wrecks Your Metabolism (And What You Can Do About It)

Waking up in the middle of the night drenched in sweat is a frustrating—and often confusing—experience. It's uncomfortable, messy, and can even be a little scary when it happens more than once. For many men, night sweats are a random nuisance that comes and goes. For others, they might signal a deeper health issue that needs attention.

If you’ve been tossing and turning, peeling off sweaty sheets, and wondering what’s going on with your body, you're definitely not alone. Night sweats are surprisingly common in men of all ages, and the causes range from completely harmless to signs of something more serious.

In this article, we'll walk you through what night sweats are, the 10 most common reasons they happen to men, when you should think about seeing a doctor, and simple tips you can start using tonight to cool down and sleep better.

Night sweats are exactly what they sound like: sweating heavily while you sleep, to the point where your pajamas and bedsheets might become soaked. It's more intense than simply feeling warm or overheated. True night sweats often wake you up in the middle of the night, feeling clammy, uncomfortable, and confused.

It’s important to know that not every warm night counts as a "night sweat." Sometimes, the environment, like a hot bedroom, heavy blankets, or spicy food before bed, can cause sweating. But when you wake up dripping with sweat even in a cool room, with no clear cause, that's when it's considered a true night sweat.

Understanding the cause matters because sometimes night sweats are your body’s way of waving a little red flag to get your attention.

There are lots of possible reasons for night sweats, some more serious than others. Let’s dive into the ten most common causes.

Hormones are chemical messengers that control nearly every function in your body, including your body temperature. When your hormones are out of balance, your body's internal thermostat can go haywire.

In men, one of the most common hormonal reasons for night sweats is low testosterone. Testosterone levels naturally decline with age, but in some men, they dip faster than normal, causing symptoms like night sweats, fatigue, weight gain, and even mood changes.

Another hormonal issue to consider is the thyroid gland. If your thyroid is overactive (a condition called hyperthyroidism), your metabolism speeds up. This can make you feel hot all the time, especially at night, leading to excessive sweating.

Certain infections can cause night sweats, too. Your body naturally uses fever and sweating as tools to fight off infections, but sometimes the sweating can continue even when you’re not feeling obviously sick.

Serious infections like tuberculosis (TB) are well-known for causing night sweats. HIV and certain bacterial infections, like endocarditis (an infection of the heart valves), can also lead to intense nighttime sweating.

If you’re experiencing night sweats along with other symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fever, or feeling very tired, it’s important to check in with a doctor to rule out an infection.

Many people think sleep disorders are just about tossing and turning or snoring loudly, but they can cause surprising symptoms like night sweats, too.

One of the most common sleep disorders linked to night sweats is obstructive sleep apnea. In sleep apnea, your airway becomes partially blocked during sleep, causing you to stop breathing for short periods. Your body then jolts itself awake slightly to resume breathing, and this repeated stress response can trigger heavy sweating.

Night terrors, while more common in children, can occasionally happen in adults and cause sudden episodes of intense fear and sweating during sleep.

Sometimes, the medicine you take to feel better can cause side effects you don't expect, like night sweats.

Medications known to trigger night sweats include certain antidepressants, especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Some hormone treatments and even over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) can also cause sweating at night.

If you’ve recently started a new medication and noticed night sweats soon after, it’s worth bringing up with your healthcare provider. They might adjust your dose or recommend an alternative.

Emotions don’t just live in your mind—they show up in your body, too. Stress and anxiety can ramp up the body’s "fight or flight" response, flooding your system with adrenaline and cortisol.

When this happens repeatedly or intensely, it can cause sweating, including while you’re asleep. Men dealing with chronic stress, high-pressure jobs, or major life changes might find that their night sweats have more to do with their emotional health than with physical illness.

Managing stress through therapy, meditation, or even simple breathing exercises can make a big difference.

Before you panic, know that cancer is a much less common cause of night sweats compared to the others we’ve talked about. But it’s still important to mention.

Certain cancers, especially lymphoma and leukemia, can cause persistent, drenching night sweats. These are usually accompanied by other symptoms like unexplained weight loss, swollen lymph nodes, or fevers.

If your night sweats are intense, ongoing, and paired with these warning signs, see a doctor sooner rather than later.

Not every case of night sweats points to a major medical problem. Sometimes, it’s just about lifestyle choices.

Drinking alcohol before bed can trigger night sweats because alcohol affects the part of your brain that regulates body temperature. Recreational drugs like cocaine or MDMA (ecstasy) can also cause sweating as a side effect.

Even simple things like wearing heavy pajamas, sleeping under too many blankets, or keeping your room too warm can lead to night sweats. Fortunately, these types of causes are easy to fix once you recognize them.

If you have diabetes or insulin resistance, your blood sugar levels can dip during the night, especially if you take insulin or other blood-sugar-lowering medications.

Low blood sugar triggers a release of adrenaline, which can cause sweating as your body tries to bring your sugar levels back up. If you often wake up sweaty and shaky, or if you notice other signs like dizziness or confusion, it’s important to talk to your doctor about your blood sugar control.

9. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

GERD, or chronic acid reflux, is usually known for causing heartburn and chest discomfort, but it can also cause night sweats in some men.

The exact link isn’t fully understood, but it's believed that the discomfort and irritation caused by acid rising into the esophagus at night may stimulate your body’s stress response, leading to sweating.

If you have frequent heartburn along with night sweats, treating your GERD could help improve your sleep quality.

Finally, in some cases, doctors can't pinpoint a specific cause for night sweats. This condition is called idiopathic hyperhidrosis, which simply means "excessive sweating of unknown cause."

It can be frustrating not to have a clear answer, but the good news is that idiopathic hyperhidrosis is usually not linked to a serious underlying illness. Treatments like specialized antiperspirants, medications, or even simple lifestyle changes can often help manage the sweating.

Not all night sweats need a trip to the doctor. But some signs should prompt you to get checked out.

If your night sweats are severe, happen frequently, or are accompanied by other symptoms like fever, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or swollen lymph nodes, it’s time to make an appointment.

Doctors can often figure out the cause through a combination of questions, a physical exam, blood tests, and sometimes imaging studies. In many cases, getting to the root cause early means treatment is simpler and more effective.

Whether your night sweats are caused by a medical condition, lifestyle factors, or stress, there are steps you can take to make your nights more comfortable.

Keep your bedroom cool—most experts recommend setting your thermostat between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit. Use lightweight, breathable bedding and moisture-wicking pajamas made from natural fabrics like cotton. Some men even find it helpful to use a cooling mattress pad or keep a fan running near the bed.

Stress management techniques like deep breathing, meditation apps, yoga, or even just talking to a friend can help lower your body's stress response. If your anxiety feels overwhelming, consider talking to a therapist for extra support.

If you think a medication might be behind your night sweats, don’t stop it on your own. Instead, talk to your doctor about possible alternatives or adjustments.

Dehydration can make your body work harder to regulate temperature. Drinking enough water throughout the day helps support your body’s natural cooling system.

Keeping a simple journal of your symptoms—what days they happen, how severe they are, what you ate, medications you took—can give you and your doctor valuable clues about what's triggering your night sweats.

Night sweats can be unsettling, but in many cases, they’re nothing to panic about. Common causes include things like hormonal shifts, stress, medications, or even a warm bedroom.

Still, because night sweats can sometimes signal more serious issues, it’s always smart to pay attention to your body and talk to a doctor if something feels off.

With the right approach, you can usually get to the bottom of your night sweats—and get back to dry, peaceful sleep.

1. Can dehydration cause night sweats in men?

While dehydration itself doesn't directly cause night sweats, being dehydrated can make it harder for your body to regulate its temperature. If you're already sweating at night and not replacing those fluids, it can make symptoms worse and leave you feeling even more drained the next day. Staying hydrated during the day can support better sleep and help manage body temperature.

2. Are night sweats in men a sign of low testosterone?

Yes, they can be. Low testosterone levels (sometimes called "Low T") can disrupt the body’s ability to regulate heat, leading to symptoms like night sweats, hot flashes, fatigue, and mood changes. If you're noticing other signs of low testosterone alongside night sweats, it’s worth asking your doctor for a simple blood test to check your hormone levels.

3. Can changing my diet help reduce night sweats?

Absolutely. Some foods and drinks—like spicy meals, caffeine, and alcohol—can trigger or worsen night sweats. Eating lighter meals in the evening, avoiding spicy food close to bedtime, cutting back on caffeine, and limiting alcohol may help reduce sweating episodes at night. Staying consistent with healthy eating habits can also support hormone balance and overall better sleep.

4. How do I know if my night sweats are serious?

If your night sweats are happening regularly, soaking through your clothes or sheets, or are paired with symptoms like unexplained weight loss, ongoing fevers, severe fatigue, or swollen lymph nodes, it’s a good idea to see a doctor. These could be signs of an underlying condition that needs medical attention, and early treatment usually leads to better outcomes.

Wondering why you wake up drenched in sweat? Discover the real causes of night sweats in men—and simple, effective ways to fix them.

What Causes Night Sweats in Men? | Symptoms, Causes, and Fixes

Dr. Daniel Uba, MD

What Causes Night Sweats in Men? 10 Common Reasons and How to Find Relief

Sleep. It seems so simple. You close your eyes, drift off, and wake up feeling (hopefully) refreshed. But what really goes on during those hours when you're knocked out? More than you might think.

Sleep isn't just one long, boring nap. Your body and brain actually go through a fascinating set of changes every night. These changes happen in cycles, and each cycle is made up of distinct stages. From the light dozing-off phase to deep restorative sleep and even vivid dreaming, every stage plays a unique role in helping your body recharge.

In this article, we’re breaking down what really happens when you sleep. We’ll explore the four stages of a sleep cycle, how these stages affect your health, and what happens when your sleep cycle gets thrown off. Whether you're a high school student pulling late-night study sessions, a new parent up at all hours, or just someone trying to sleep better, this guide is for you.

Let’s start with the basics. A sleep cycle is the process your brain and body go through as you sleep. On average, one full sleep cycle lasts about 90 to 110 minutes, and throughout the night, you’ll go through about four to six of these cycles.

Each cycle moves through four different stages, starting with lighter sleep and ending with REM sleep (more on that soon). These stages aren’t just random. Your body follows a pattern to help you repair, recharge, and get ready for a new day.

The first part of the night is usually dominated by deep sleep, while REM sleep becomes more prominent in the early morning hours. That’s why if you wake up too early, you might feel groggy or forget your dreams—you were probably in REM sleep.

Understanding sleep cycles can help you figure out why you feel refreshed some mornings and totally drained on others. It’s not just about how long you sleep—it’s about how well your body moves through these cycles.

The 4 Main Stages of Sleep (Simplified Breakdown)

Ever wonder what happens when you sleep? Discover the 4 stages of sleep—NREM and REM—and how they affect memory, healing, mood, and more. Learn how to improve your sleep cycle today.

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