SWEATING WHILE SICK: WHY IT HAPPENS AND HOW TO DEAL WITH

Why Do I Sweat When I’m Sick?

Sweating is your body's natural way of cooling down. When you're sick, especially with something like the flu, your body temperature can spike. This is your immune system's way of fighting off the invaders. The heat helps kill off the germs, but it also makes you sweat more.

Is It Normal to Sweat a Lot with the Flu?

Short answer: Yes. It's totally normal to sweat a lot when you're sick, especially with the flu. Your body is in overdrive trying to fight off the infection, and sweating is part of that process. But excessive sweating can be a annoying, and it can leave you feeling gross and uncomfortable.

When Should I Be Concerned About the Amount I’m Sweating?

While sweating is a natural response, there are times when it might be a sign of something more serious. If you're sweating profusely and it's not cooling you down, or if you're experiencing other symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or confusion, it's time to call a doctor. Better safe than sorry, right?

Tips to Manage Your Sweating While You’re Sick

You're sweating up a storm and just want to feel human again. Here are some practical tips to help manage those uncomfortable sweats:

1. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate

When you're sweating buckets, staying hydrated is key. Keeping up with your fluids helps regulate body temperature, boosts energy, supports skin health, and balances electrolytes lost through sweat. Drink lots of fluids—water, herbal teas, and clear broths are your go-tos.

2. Keep your clothes loose and breezy

Wearing breathable clothing when you’re sweating while sick is a must. It helps keep your body cool, prevents overheating, and allows sweat to evaporate more easily. Say goodbye to discomfort with loose, natural fabrics like cotton—it also prevents irritation and helps you feel fresher while your body fights off illness.

3. Keep your room cool

Turn down the thermostat or crank up a fan to keep your space chill. A cooler environment helps reduce sweating and makes it way easier to catch some Zs.

4. Go for products that have your back

Even when you’re stuck in bed, keeping fresh can make all the difference. A good body wash and deodorant combo is key to staying cool, clean, and feeling a little more like yourself. Try a refreshing body wash to gently cleanse without irritating sensitive skin and follow up with a reliable antiperspirant or deodorant to keep you feeling and smelling good.

5. Take a chill shower

A lukewarm shower —not too hot, not too cold—is your go-to for cooling off without giving your body a temperature shock. Unlike a cold shower, which can make you feel cold or mess with your immune response, lukewarm water gently lowers your body temp while keeping things comfortable. Plus, a quick rinse can wash away sweat, leaving you feeling refreshed, cleaner, and way more like yourself.

6. Change your sheets regularly

Sweaty nights can leave your sheets feeling gross. Swap them out regularly to keep your bed fresh and comfy, so you can rest up and recover.

Natural Sweat Busting Remedies to Try

If you're into natural remedies, there are a few things you can try to help manage your sweating while you’re sick:

Herbal teas

Some herbal teas, like sage, can actually help dial down the sweat. Sage’s natural tannins work to tighten skin, while chamomile and peppermint keep things cool. Steep, sip, and let the good vibes flow—just 1-2 cups a day for max chill.

Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar can help balance your body’s pH levels, which can help lower excessive sweating, even when you’re sick. By drinking a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar mixed with water, you may be giving your body a natural way to stay balanced, potentially helping to curb that extra sweat.

Essential Oils

Certain essential oils, like lavender and peppermint, can have a cooling effect and help reduce sweating. Add a few drops to a diffuser to add a scent to your space or mix it with a carrier oil and apply to your skin.

Sweating at Night: The Worst Kind of Wake-Up Call

Night sweats are particularly annoying because they disrupt your sleep, which is crucial for recovery. If you're waking up drenched, try these tips:

Sleep on a towel

Lay a towel on your bed to absorb sweat. It's easier to wash a towel than to change your sheets in the middle of the night.

Use a cooling pillow

Cooling pillows work by using gel, breathable fabrics, or ventilation channels to keep you cool and comfy while you sleep. You can find cooling pillows in most home goods stores or online. Just choose one that fits your sleep style for max chill vibes all night.

Sleep in light layers

Skip the heavy blankets and pile on some light layers you can adjust if things get too toasty. Fabrics like cotton or bamboo are breathable and help wick away sweat, keeping you cool and comfy all night. Plus, layering makes it easy to add or ditch a blanket whenever your temp changes—no more waking up drenched! 

 

Sweating while sick might be annoying, but it’s totally normal and just your body’s way of fighting off whatever infection you've caught. By staying hydrated, rocking breathable clothing, and using a quality deo or body spray, you can manage the discomfort and focus on feeling better.