Experts Share Simple Tips to Improve Sleep During Heatwaves

Rising temperatures and heatwaves can significantly disrupt sleep by preventing the body from lowering its internal temperature, leading to tossing, turning, and frequent awakenings. Professor Rivi Tauman, interviewed by Iris Kol, explains that the body's difficulty in cooling down is the main cause of poor sleep quality during hot nights. British consumer experts from Which? recently recommended practical methods to combat this issue, such as taking a cool shower or soaking feet in cold water before bedtime to help the body cool and feel refreshed.

Additional advice includes wearing lightweight, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics, using air conditioning, and keeping feet outside the blanket to stay cool. Avoiding strenuous exercise and heavy, spicy, or hot meals before sleep is also advised, as these can raise body temperature. Placing a bowl of ice in front of a fan to circulate cooler air and ventilating the room during cooler hours while closing windows and shutters during heat are other suggested measures.

Social media users have shared personal tips like running wrists under cold water or spraying water on themselves and their bedding. However, experts caution that not all online advice is medically verified. The key goal is maintaining a comfortable body temperature, staying hydrated throughout the day, and avoiding overheating before sleep. During extreme heat, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, infants, and those with chronic illnesses, it is crucial to watch for signs of dehydration or heatstroke and follow medical guidance accordingly.