ITV's Dr Amir Khan reveals two tricks to get a sound sleep during the heatwave
As temperatures soar across the UK, many are finding it harder than ever to get a decent night's sleep. With sweat-soaked sheets and stifling bedrooms becoming the norm, it's no surprise that countless people are struggling to drift off.
Scotland, in particular, has just recorded its hottest day in over two years. The Met Office confirmed that Aviemore reached a scorching 30C, marking the third heatwave of the summer and the highest temperature since 13 June 2023.
But help is at hand. ITV's resident doctor, Amir Khan, has shared two simple hacks that could make all the difference during these sweltering nights, Mirror reports.
Appearing on Lorraine, the GP offered practical and cost-effective advice to help viewers cool down when it matters most, at bedtime.
'My two really practical top tips,' Dr Khan said, 'If you've got a fan at home, don't just blow hot air around, get a bowl of ice or frozen peas, [and] put it under the fan.
"As the air blows over it, it will cool the air, and you'll have a really efficient and free air conditioning system.'
He continued: 'Step number two, get a pair of socks. Put them in a plastic Ziploc bag, put them in the freezer an hour before bed, because it's really hard to sleep when it's this hot. Put those socks on before you get into bed.
"It will cool your body down, and you'll have a much better night's sleep tonight."
The clip has been widely shared online, with many social media users praising the advice. 'Top tips for the cost of living crisis,' one commenter wrote. Another simply added: 'Brilliant advice.' Others joined in with: 'Love the socks idea' and 'Thank you for sharing.'
The intense heat has prompted official warnings. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued yellow heat alerts in place until Monday across the North East, North West, and Yorkshire and Humber.
Meanwhile, the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has issued a strong safety message urging people not to enter open water to cool down, warning of the serious risks, especially to children.
NFCC chairman Phil Garrigan said: 'We are urging people to take simple but vital safety precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones during this period of hot, dry weather.'
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HM Coastguard echoed the warning, reminding the public to stay vigilant near the coast. According to data from the water incident database, most drownings in the UK have occurred in July over the past three years.
There's science behind the struggle for sleep. When we prepare for rest, our core body temperature naturally drops, helping us to wind down. But high temperatures can interfere with this cooling process, leaving many restless and exhausted.
According to the NHS, most healthy adults need around seven to nine hours of sleep each night, though individual needs can vary. 'Teenagers, children and babies need more sleep because they are still growing,' the website explains, 'but that varies, too, with a newborn sleeping anywhere between eight to 16 hours.'
Sleep issues can be caused by anything from health conditions and stress to big life changes like becoming a new parent. While occasional restlessness is normal, ongoing problems that affect daily life may require professional support.
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