A doctor has explained the simple reasons why you feel so tired during UK heatwaves as soaring temperatures hit the nation. Though the hot weather is usually met with joy for the first few days, the stifling heat soon means many end up lethargic.
Speaking to the PA news agency, Dr Shah explained why we feel exhausted when the weather gets hotter. "When the weather is hot, our bodies have to work harder to cool themselves down," he said.
"The body’s natural cooling mechanism involves increasing blood circulation near the skin’s surface and promoting sweat production. These physiological changes can lead to fatigue and a feeling of lethargy. It is essential to recognise that this fatigue is a normal response to heat and is typically temporary."
Increased strain is put on the likes of your heart, lungs and kidneys, the expert adds - which can result in major health complications if left unchecked. Dehydration and heat exhaustion are also major issues which can easily creep up on you rapidly.
Dr Shah explained: "Prolonged exposure to heat can result in heat exhaustion, a condition characterised by symptoms such as heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache, and muscle cramps. If you experience these warning signs, it's crucial to move to a cooler environment, drink fluids, and rest."
Heat stroke is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical intervention. It occurs when the body's temperature regulation fails and the core temperature rises dangerously high.
Symptoms include confusion, rapid breathing, rapid heartbeat and even loss of consciousness. If you have any of these symptoms you need to seek shade, water, cooler temperatures immediately and get medical attention.
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Sleep deprivation is also a major factor is feeling lethargic during heatwaves. Sweltering evening conditions make it difficult to sleep, with Dr Shah saying: "The body needs to cool down to initiate sleep, and excessive heat can make it difficult to reach the optimal sleep temperature."
To help, close curtains and blinds during the day, open all windows it is safe to do so in the evening and even hand damp towels to cool air down. The World Health Organisation states UK households should aim to keep the temperature under 24C at night.
