How I keep my body from overheating during the summer

As someone with Cushing’s disease, I respond incredibly poorly to heat. I can handle it in short bursts, but when the temperature is in the 80s or 90s F for weeks on end, I have a hard time regulating my body.

Overheating is not only uncomfortable; it also leads to dizzy spells, high stress, and an increased body temperature, none of which mesh well with Cushing’s. So, this summer, I’m working to do everything possible to keep myself cool during extreme heat waves.

My main issue is sleeping. When I overheat at night, I experience an increase in insomnia and restlessness. So, my husband and I sleep in a room with an air conditioner and a fan to help move the cool air around. I also use ice packs on my feet. When my feet feel hot, I feel hot, so this helps me stay cool and sleep. If none of that works, I’ll take a quick dip in the shower and go to bed wet. I’m not sure I’d recommend that, but sometimes I’m so desperate for a reprieve that I don’t have a choice.

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During the day, my main goal is to stay hydrated. I recently downloaded an app called Finch, in which I have a baby bird, and completing tasks helps it to grow. Plus, I can customize it with my personal goals and use it for reminders like staying hydrated. I also have a hydration boost drink that I take with my meds, which contains pomegranate juice, pineapple juice, coconut water, and ice. It keeps me feeling fresh, and I also use the Finch app to remind me to make it.

In addition, I try to keep my days slow. My husband and I just moved to a new state and are going through in vitro fertilization (IVF), and I can’t even begin to describe how tired I am. Part of me wants to explore our new area, go out, and even pick up fitness again, since it’s been on the back burner for a while, but the current heat wave demands I go slow. I can’t do more than some yoga and walking with an ice pack on my head. It might seem a bit extreme, but between Cushing’s and IVF, the last thing my body needs is to overheat.

My last tip is to make cold, hydrating snacks. I freeze grapes with a bit of lime juice, and my partner got me an Icee machine that has been life-changing. Even just grabbing Icee treats from the store and having one when I’m feeling crappy makes a difference. I’m avoiding soups and other hot meals, and going for fruit (especially watermelon) when I can.

It’s tough moving around and living in extreme heat, especially with a chronic illness. Do whatever you can to keep yourself safe. I’m wishing you a cool and fun summer.

You can also follow my journey on TikTok and YouTube.

Note: Cushing’s Disease News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Cushing’s Disease News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Cushing’s.