Why do I feel uncomfortable mentally when it's hot outside?

Nov 15, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, feeling unwell or discomfort in hot weather may be caused by excessive fluid loss, poor heat dissipation, coronary heart disease, arrhythmia, hyperthyroidism, or other reasons. If you experience any discomfort, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. In daily life, take precautions during hot weather by reducing outdoor activities, carrying cooling items and drinking water, and maintaining good indoor ventilation.

Generally, feeling physically uncomfortable during hot weather may be caused by excessive fluid loss, poor heat dissipation, coronary heart disease, arrhythmia, hyperthyroidism, or other conditions. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Excessive Fluid Loss

Heavy sweating in high temperatures leads to fluid imbalance and reduced blood volume, causing palpitations and chest tightness. It is advisable to promptly drink oral rehydration solutions or sports beverages in small amounts frequently, avoiding consuming large quantities of water at once.

2. Poor Heat Dissipation

Stuffy, hot environments and non-breathable clothing can cause elevated body temperature, stimulating the sympathetic nervous system and leading to irritability and chest discomfort. Immediately move to a cool, shaded area, loosen clothing, and use a damp towel to wipe the body for cooling.

3. Coronary Heart Disease

High temperatures increase heart rate and myocardial oxygen consumption, potentially causing insufficient coronary blood supply and resulting in chest tightness or pain. Medications such as enteric-coated aspirin tablets, nitroglycerin tablets, and rosuvastatin calcium tablets may be used under medical guidance. Avoid going outdoors during peak heat hours.

4. Arrhythmia

Elevated temperatures may disrupt the heart's electrical activity, leading to irregular heart rhythms, manifesting as palpitations or fluttering sensations. Medications such as metoprolol tartrate tablets, propafenone hydrochloride tablets, or amiodarone tablets may be taken under a doctor’s direction, while maintaining emotional stability.

5. Hyperthyroidism

Patients with hyperthyroidism already have an increased metabolic rate; high temperatures further stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, triggering symptoms such as palpitations, excessive sweating, and irritability. Medications such as methimazole tablets, propylthiouracil tablets, and propranolol tablets may be used as prescribed. Avoid direct sun exposure.

In daily life, it is important to reduce outdoor activities during hot weather; carry cooling items and drinking water; maintain indoor ventilation and use air conditioning or fans to regulate room temperature; and undergo regular health check-ups to monitor cardiac and thyroid function.