Night Sweats After A Flu Diagnosis: When to Seek Medical Advice?

Excessive sweating during sleep after being diagnosed with influenza type A?

Hello, doctor! My son was diagnosed with influenza type A on January 7th and received Rebata (oseltamivir) on the same day.
The next day, his fever gradually subsided, leaving only a cough and runny nose.
However, he has been sweating at night for several consecutive nights, and his body temperature has dropped to 35.9°C, although it is normal during the day.
Is this related to his recovery from influenza, or could it be a side effect of the medication? Does he need to see a doctor for further evaluation? Thank you.

Yue, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/01/10

Dr. Xie Wanghu reply Pediatrics

Hello, April's mom.
Night sweats during sleep may be related to the course of the illness.
Once the illness improves, it should resolve.
Also, make sure not to dress the child in too many layers while sleeping; keeping them warm and comfortable is sufficient.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2024/01/10

More Info

Night sweats can be a concerning symptom, especially following a diagnosis of influenza. In your son's case, it is important to consider several factors that could be contributing to his night sweats after his recent flu diagnosis and treatment.

Firstly, it is not uncommon for individuals recovering from influenza to experience residual symptoms, including night sweats. The body goes through a significant amount of stress when fighting off a viral infection, and as it recovers, it may exhibit various symptoms as part of the healing process. Night sweats can occur due to the body's thermoregulation system adjusting back to normal after a fever or infection.
Additionally, the medication used to treat influenza, such as antiviral drugs like oseltamivir (Tamiflu), can sometimes have side effects that include changes in body temperature regulation. While these medications are generally well-tolerated, individual responses can vary, and some children may experience side effects that could manifest as night sweats.

The low body temperature you mentioned (35.9°C) is also noteworthy. While this is not considered a fever, it is on the lower end of the normal range. Hypothermia can sometimes occur in the context of infection or as a side effect of certain medications. It is essential to monitor his overall condition, including any other symptoms he may be experiencing, such as fatigue, irritability, or changes in appetite.

Given that your son has been experiencing night sweats for several consecutive nights, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional. While night sweats can be a benign symptom related to recovery from influenza, they can also indicate other underlying issues, such as secondary infections, dehydration, or even more serious conditions. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination and possibly some laboratory tests to rule out any complications or other causes of the night sweats.

In summary, while night sweats following a flu diagnosis can be a normal part of recovery, it is essential to keep a close eye on your son's symptoms and seek medical advice if the night sweats persist or if he develops any new symptoms. A healthcare provider can provide reassurance, further evaluation, and appropriate management to ensure your son's health and well-being.

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