Why Do Women Feel More Exhausted During Hot Weather?

SadaNews - With rising temperatures and summer approaching, the effects of hot weather extend beyond a fleeting feeling of fatigue to a state of persistent tiredness and reduced energy for many women, even when getting adequate rest. Health experts indicate that this feeling is not solely related to heat but intermingles with hormonal changes in the body, which may amplify the impact of heat waves on women's health, according to the "The Health Site."

Why does heat affect women differently?

Dr. Tripti Rajha, a specialist in obstetrics and gynecology, explains that women are more susceptible to feelings of tiredness during heat waves due to the hormonal changes they experience at different stages of life, such as menstruation, premenstrual syndrome, pregnancy, the perimenopausal stage, and menopause. She clarifies that these stages inherently affect energy levels, making the body less capable of enduring the additional stress caused by high temperatures.

She adds that women experiencing heavy menstruation or iron deficiency may be more prone to lower energy reserves, which intensifies the effects of heat on them. Additionally, the combination of hot weather with symptoms like weakness and fatigue can significantly exacerbate the situation. She also points out that pregnant women are among the most affected groups due to the increased metabolic demands on the body during pregnancy, making dehydration and fatigue occur more rapidly.

What is the relationship between hormones, heat, and fatigue?

Dr. Sakshi Goyal, a consultant at a hospital in India, explains that heat waves can disrupt hormone balance in the body. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can stimulate the release of stress hormones such as cortisol, which may impact the balance of other hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and thyroid hormones, all of which are responsible for regulating mood, energy levels, and metabolic processes.

She adds that dehydration, one of the most common effects during heat waves, complicates the situation. Even the loss of small amounts of fluid can affect circulation and weaken the body's ability to regulate its temperature, leading to symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and severe fatigue.

Moreover, hot and uncomfortable nights can disrupt sleep quality due to their effect on the secretion of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep, which prevents the body from getting adequate rest and leads to increased feelings of fatigue the next day.