Do you ever wonder why when after enjoying a hot day in the sun you feel so sleepy? Even just lounging at the beach leaves you craving an afternoon nap.
In this article, we’ll explain the science behind why heat makes you sleepy and share important tips to stay safe and feel more awake when it’s hot out. We’ll also highlight how you can use heat to your advantage if you have problems falling asleep at night.
Heat & Tiredness
When you become hot, your body will work in overdrive to keep you cool and maintain a safe internal temperature. All that hard work can leave you feeling sluggish.
The hypothalamus[1] is a part of the brain that controls bodily functions, and it works with other parts of the body, including the sweat glands, skin, and blood vessels, to keep your temperature in check.
You become Dehydrated
Dehydration[4] occurs when your body loses more fluids than you’re taking in. When you’re sweating, you are losing fluids more rapidly, and if you’re not replenishing them, you will likely become dehydrated. One of the effects of dehydration is fatigue.
Dehydration can also lead to more severe health conditions, including heat exhaustion, heatstroke, urinary and kidney problems, seizures, and hypovolemic shock. Anyone is vulnerable to the effects of dehydration, but it is more dangerous for young kids and older adults.
Heat can make you have a drop in blood pressure
As previously mentioned, people who are hot may experience dehydration and increased blood flow to the skin. This can, in turn, lead to low blood pressure[5] – or hypotension. Fatigue is one of the symptoms of low blood pressure.
Hypotension also puts you at a higher risk of dizziness, fainting, and falls, which can be especially hazardous for older adults.
Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion
- Cool, moist skin
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Fatigue
- Extreme sweating
- A weak or rapid pulse
- Low blood pressure while standing
- Muscle cramps
- Nausea
- Headache
How To Feel More Awake On Hot Days
Just because heat can make you sleepy doesn’t mean it has to. Taking preventive measures such as buying a cooling mattress to stay safe should also keep you more awake and alert when temperatures rise.
Drink Plenty of Water
To help curb dehydration and its sleep-inducing effects, you should drink lots of water. While you may not feel thirsty, if you’re sweating, you need to replenish the fluids that you’re losing. Not all fluids are helpful, though. Avoid caffeinated beverages and alcohol if you can. Add Celtic Sea Salt (just a pinch) to your waters.
Get Some Shade
Peak heat hours are usually from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. You should limit your sun and heat exposure by either staying indoors or taking breaks in the shade during this time.
