At EASTSIDE FAMILY HEALTH CENTER in Kirkland, WA, we see how seasonal heat waves sabotage even the best sleep routines. Dr. Frank Marinkovich, M.D., helps patients understand why high nighttime temperatures make quality sleep harder—and what you can do to protect your rest and your health during sweltering summer nights.
Your body’s core temperature naturally drops at night to help you fall asleep
Hot air and trapped heat in your bedroom stop this cooling process
Sweating overnight can wake you up or cause dehydration
Poor sleep raises cortisol levels, which affects mood, metabolism, and energy
Why it matters: Chronic poor sleep during heat waves can weaken your immune system and worsen other health conditions.
Restless tossing and turning
Waking up drenched in sweat
Feeling tired even after a full night in bed
Headaches, dehydration, or irritability the next day
Trouble falling back asleep if you wake up during the night
Tip: If your sleep feels worse in summer, the temperature could be the real culprit.
Use Lightweight Bedding — Switch heavy comforters for breathable cotton sheets
Keep Your Bedroom Cool — Run a fan, open windows at night, or use AC wisely
Hydrate Before Bed — Drink enough fluids, but not so much that you wake up to use the bathroom
Cool Your Core — A lukewarm shower or cool washcloth on your neck helps drop your body temperature
Sleep Low — Heat rises, so a lower sleeping spot or a mattress on the floor can help on extra-hot nights
Tip: Avoid alcohol and big meals late at night—they raise your core temperature, too.
Sleep Quality Assessments — Pinpoint if temperature, hormones, or other factors are wrecking your sleep
Practical Sleep Plans — Tailored steps for better sleep, even in challenging conditions
Hormone & Metabolic Support — Because hot flashes, stress, and thyroid issues can make heat effects worse
Hydration & Electrolyte Balance — Prevent overnight dehydration that ruins sleep quality
Why it matters: Sleeping well in the heat isn’t just about comfort—it’s about protecting your long-term health.
At EASTSIDE FAMILY HEALTH CENTER, we help you keep your sleep strong through every season. Whether it’s heat waves, hormones, or lifestyle habits getting in the way, we’ll help you build a plan so you wake up rested, recharged, and ready for summer.
