A doctor has explained the signs of being ‘heat hungover’ to look out for as the UK heatwave continues.
The Met Office predicts temperatures will reach up to a scorching 31 degrees this weekend in parts of the country.
And while the hot weather is great for a tan or a day at the beach, there are major health risks to be aware of.
READ MORE: ‘Miracle’ as gran gets life back weeks after writing ‘goodbye poems’ to family
Specifically, signs you might be suffering a “heat hangover”.
“The typical symptoms reported after a hot day mirror those of an alcohol-related hangover,” Dr Harry Jarrett, based in London, told Need To Know.
“While ‘heat hangover’ isn’t a clinical term, it’s a very real experience for many people – especially during prolonged hot weather, like we’ve had this week.”
The phrase, as it’s been coined, refers to a cluster of symptoms, such as fatigue, headaches, brain fog, nausea, dizziness, irritability – and a general sense of feeling unwell.
Most of these are due to dehydration and a loss of electrolytes.
And the doctor explains that even just a one percent drop in hydration can be detrimental.
He said: “[This] can significantly impair memory, focus, mood and mental clarity.
“This is due to reduced blood volume, impaired thermoregulation and neurotransmitter – brain chemical – imbalance, which forces your body to work harder to cool down.
“Sweat doesn’t just remove water; it flushes out key electrolytes like sodium, potassium and magnesium that are essential for hydration.
“[Also], inadequate nutrition and over-reliance on caffeine or alcohol can further dehydrate the body and [worsen] symptoms.”
To stop waking up feeling like you’ve had a heavy night out, Dr Harry suggests a few key tips.
The head of science and research at Heights, a supplement brand, said: “Rehydrate smartly.
“Water alone may not be enough, particularly in hot weather when large amounts of fluid can be lost through sweat.
“Replacing lost electrolytes is crucial to restoring cellular hydration and balance.
“Take cold showers, use fans or apply cold compresses to pulse points to assist thermoregulation and lower core body temperature.
“Prioritise recovery and sleep in a cool, dark room.
“Eat hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumber and leafy greens that have high water content.
“And avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they both act as diuretics, meaning they increase fluid and electrolyte loss.
“Prevention is always more effective than treatment.
“Hydrate before you feel thirsty, as thirst is already a sign you’re behind.
“Set reminders or pair hydration with regular tasks.
“Limit physical activity during peak heat hours and wear lightweight, breathable fabrics.”
Dr Harry advises people to avoid carrying on as normal if any of these signs appear, as it’s likely the body is already in a state of overload.
He added: “Without appropriate recovery, these symptoms can intensify.
“Don’t push on with work, exercise or errands, as you’re running on empty.
“[And don’t] ignore the need for downtime.”
READ MORE: ‘I thought I had a bad back – but it was aggressive cancer that had spread to my bones and liver’
