Excessive Sweating in Infants During Sleep: Causes and Concerns

Infants sweating while sleeping?

Hello, doctor.
My child is nine months old and had a throat infection with a fever for three days a few days ago.
For the past two days, their temperature has been normal and their activity level has returned.
However, whenever they sleep, they sweat a lot, even though the thickness of the blanket is the same as before.
We adults don't feel hot under the same blanket.
Could this be related to just recovering from a cold and their body still adjusting? Or could there be another reason? They didn't sweat like this before the cold.
Thank you, doctor.

Qianqian, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/02/21

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

It is normal for infants to experience increased sweating temporarily during the recovery period from an illness.

Reply Date: 2015/02/21

More Info

Excessive sweating in infants during sleep, also known as nocturnal sweating, can be concerning for parents, especially when it appears suddenly after an illness. In your case, your nine-month-old child recently experienced a throat infection and fever, and now exhibits excessive sweating during sleep despite normal body temperature and activity levels.
There are several potential causes for this phenomenon, and it is essential to consider both physiological and environmental factors.
1. Post-Illness Recovery: After an illness, especially one involving fever, it is common for the body to undergo a period of adjustment. The body's thermoregulation system may still be recovering, leading to episodes of sweating during sleep. This is often temporary and should resolve as the body fully recovers.

2. Environmental Factors: While you mentioned that the thickness of the blankets has not changed, it’s important to consider the overall sleeping environment. Room temperature, humidity levels, and the type of bedding can all impact how much a child sweats. Even if adults do not feel hot, infants have different metabolic rates and may be more sensitive to temperature changes.
3. Hyperhidrosis: This condition refers to excessive sweating that is not necessarily related to heat or exercise. While it is rare in infants, it can occur. If the sweating persists beyond the recovery period and is accompanied by other symptoms (such as irritability, changes in appetite, or unusual behavior), it may warrant further investigation.

4. Infections or Illnesses: Sometimes, excessive sweating can be a sign of an underlying infection or illness, such as a respiratory infection or even a more systemic issue. If your child continues to sweat excessively, it may be worth consulting a pediatrician to rule out any lingering infections or other health concerns.

5. Metabolic or Endocrine Disorders: Although less common, certain metabolic or endocrine disorders can lead to excessive sweating in children. If there are other concerning symptoms, such as poor weight gain or developmental delays, it would be prudent to discuss these with your pediatrician.

6. Anxiety or Stress: Although less likely in infants, stress or anxiety can sometimes manifest as physical symptoms, including sweating. Changes in routine, environment, or family dynamics can impact a child's emotional state.

In summary, while it is possible that your child's excessive sweating is a normal part of recovery from a recent illness, it is essential to monitor the situation closely. If the sweating persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it would be advisable to consult with your pediatrician. They may recommend a thorough evaluation to ensure that there are no underlying health issues that need to be addressed.
In the meantime, ensure that your child's sleeping environment is comfortable, with appropriate bedding and room temperature. Keeping a diary of your child's symptoms, including when the sweating occurs and any other notable behaviors, can be helpful for your healthcare provider in making an accurate assessment.

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