Why You Might Always Feel Hot

Do you constantly feel overheated, even when others seem perfectly comfortable? If you find yourself fanning your face or searching for the nearest air conditioner more often than not, you’re not alone. Many factors from your environment to underlying health conditions can cause your body to run hotter than usual.

Here are eight possible reasons you may always feel hot, along with tips to cool down and regain comfort.

1. You're Living in a Hot, Humid Environment

If you're surrounded by high temperatures and heavy humidity, your body may struggle to regulate heat. Poor insulation, minimal airflow, and metal roofing can all trap heat indoors even when you're not outside.

How to cool down:

• Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat

• Stay hydrated; aim for clear or pale-yellow urine

• Use a spray bottle or damp cloth on your skin

• Dress in light, breathable, loose-fitting clothing

2. You Might Have Hyperthyroidism

An overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) increases metabolism, making your body burn energy faster and generate more heat. Other symptoms may include weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and fatigue.

How to treat it:

• Medications to reduce thyroid hormone levels

• Radioactive iodine to shrink the gland

• Surgical removal of the thyroid (in some cases)

3. You're Pregnant

Pregnancy increases blood volume and raises body temperature. Hormonal fluctuations (particularly estrogen and progesterone) also affect thermoregulation.

Cool tips during pregnancy:

• Drink plenty of water

• Choose cotton or linen clothing

• Keep fans or cooling towels nearby

• Rest in cool environments whenever possible

4. You're in the Menopausal Transition

Hot flashes are a hallmark of perimenopause and menopause, due to decreased levels of estrogen. These sudden waves of heat often come with flushing and sweating, and can disrupt sleep or daily routines.

Relief strategies:

• Avoid triggers like spicy food, alcohol, and caffeine

• Dress in layers you can remove easily

• Talk to your provider about hormone therapy or non-hormonal medications

5. Your Medications May Be the Culprit

Certain medications can interfere with how your body regulates heat or retains fluids.

Common offenders:

• Antihistamines: Can reduce sweating

• Diuretics: Cause fluid loss, contributing to dehydration

• Antidepressants: May alter thermoregulation

• Blood pressure medications: Affect heart rate and circulation

What to do: Speak with your healthcare provider about possible alternatives or dosage adjustments, and stay hydrated.

6. Mental Health and Anxiety

About 4% of the global population lives with anxiety disorders, which can cause increased sweating, racing thoughts, and a constant feeling of being overheated even without an external temperature trigger.

Helpful treatments:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

• Medications (such as SSRIs)

• Reducing caffeine

• Prioritizing sleep and rest

• Support groups or mindfulness practices

7. You're Living With Diabetes

Diabetes affects your blood vessels and nerves, sometimes damaging your sweat glands and impairing your body’s ability to cool itself. Dehydration common in people with diabetes only makes it worse.

Ways to stay cool:

• Drink water consistently throughout the day

• Avoid alcohol and caffeine

• Choose breathable fabrics

• Stay indoors during peak heat hours

8. You May Be Dehydrated

Mild to moderate dehydration can make your body feel overheated and fatigued. It’s especially common in older adults and people with chronic illnesses like kidney disease.

Hydration tips:

• Take small, frequent sips of water

• Use cold compresses on your forehead, armpits, or groin

• Rest in a shaded or air-conditioned space

• Watch for warning signs like dark urine, confusion, or lightheadedness

When to Seek Medical Attention

If feeling hot is a new, worsening, or disruptive symptom in your life, it’s time to speak to your healthcare provider. They may run tests or ask about your medical history and current medications to determine the cause.

Treatment may include:

• Medication adjustments

• Hormone therapy

• Surgery (for conditions like thyroid disorders)

• Lifestyle changes, including improved hydration or cooling techniques

For more evidence-based health insights, subscribe to our newsletter or share this article with someone who’s always reaching for the nearest fan.