Media Coverage: Dr Asiya Maula Explains Why Summer Heat Can Leave You Feeling Exhausted

As temperatures continue to soar across the UK, Dr Asiya Maula, Private GP at The Health Suite, has shared expert insight into the phenomenon often referred to as a “heatwave hangover” or the Japanese concept of “natsubate” (summer exhaustion).

Featured in a national health article, Dr Maula explained that fatigue after a heatwave is a genuine physiological response rather than simply feeling run down.

“We often spend more time outdoors, walk more, travel more, exercise in warmer conditions or drink more alcohol at barbecues and social events. All of those place additional demands on the body and can contribute to that lingering feeling of fatigue.”

She explained that the effects of extreme heat can continue long after temperatures begin to fall.

“Many people notice they feel unusually tired after a spell of very hot weather, even once temperatures have started to cool down. It’s sometimes referred to as a ‘heatwave hangover’, and it’s a very real response to the extra strain heat places on the body.”

According to Dr Maula, even mild dehydration can leave people feeling drained for several days, making proper recovery essential.

She recommends:

• Continuing to drink fluids regularly in the days following a heatwave.
• Eating balanced, nutritious meals.
• Replace electrolytes if you’ve been sweating heavily.
• Prioritising good-quality sleep.
• Choosing gentle movement instead of intense exercise while recovering.

“The best approach is to continue drinking fluids regularly over the days that follow, eat balanced meals, replace electrolytes if you’ve been sweating heavily, and prioritise good-quality sleep. Gentle movement, rather than intense exercise, can also help people feel more energised as they recover.”

Dr Maula also advises seeking medical attention if fatigue persists or is accompanied by concerning symptoms.

“If your extreme tiredness doesn’t improve after a couple of weeks, becomes progressively worse, or is accompanied by symptoms such as chest pain, severe breathlessness, unexplained weight loss or persistent fevers, it’s important to seek medical advice, as fatigue can have many different causes beyond hot weather.”

Through her expert guidance, Dr Maula highlights the importance of hydration, rest and gradual recovery to help the body recover from the physical strain of prolonged hot weather.

Click here to read the complete article “What Is Natsubate? Experts Explain Why You Feel Tired During Summer” in The Huffington Post.