LONDON, Oct 7: Health experts are sounding the alarm about a lesser-known cancer symptom that may be hiding in your bedroom—excessive night sweats. Cancer, which encompasses over 200 different types, arises when abnormal cells multiply uncontrollably, invading surrounding tissues and organs. While many signs of cancer are linked to specific areas of the body—such as a persistent cough signaling lung cancer or visible blood in stools indicating bowel cancer—some symptoms can be more ambiguous and easily overlooked.

One alarming sign to watch for is severe nocturnal perspiration. If you frequently wake up to find your bed linens soaked, it may be time to consult a healthcare professional. According to the NHS, "Most people sweat during the night," but they emphasize that "if you regularly wake up with soaking wet sheets, you should get it checked by a GP." Consistently waking up drenched, even in a cool sleeping environment, could indicate a more serious underlying issue.

Cancer Research UK states that "very heavy night sweats" can potentially signal the presence of cancer, though they may also arise from medication side effects or other less severe conditions. The organization advises speaking to a doctor if you experience persistent heavy night sweats or unexplained fevers. NHS guidelines suggest that certain cancers can significantly elevate perspiration levels.

Leukaemia is one type of cancer associated with night sweats. According to Leukaemia Care, about 30 percent of individuals diagnosed with the condition report experiencing night sweats. The organization emphasizes that while sweating during sleep is normal, severe night sweats that saturate bedding or pajamas—despite a cool room—should be taken seriously. A survey conducted by Leukaemia Care revealed that 31 percent of over 2,000 leukaemia patients identified night sweats as a significant symptom before their diagnosis.

Leukaemia Care differentiates between regular sweating and symptoms that may indicate a more serious condition: "You regularly have night sweats that wake you up at night; you may wake up drenched in sweat, unable to cool down even if your room is cool." Many patients describe the sensation as feeling like they have just emerged from a swimming pool before settling into bed.

As awareness grows regarding these subtle signs, experts encourage individuals to pay attention to their bodies and seek medical advice if experiencing unusual night sweats. Early detection can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes for various types of cancer.