Feeling hot all the time can be uncomfortable and, in some cases, a sign of an underlying health condition. While it’s normal to feel warmer after physical activity, being outdoors in hot weather, or drinking caffeinated beverages, constant heat sensitivity might require more attention.

Here are seven possible reasons you might always feel hot and what you can do about it.

1. Diabetes
People with diabetes may feel hotter than usual due to damage to blood vessels and nerves. This damage can affect sweat glands, making it difficult for the body to regulate temperature effectively. Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes can cause this issue.

2. Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid produces too many hormones, speeding up your metabolism. This condition makes it harder for your body to tolerate heat. Common symptoms include fatigue, muscle weakness, hand tremors, and heat sensitivity.

3. Pregnancy
Pregnancy naturally raises body temperature for several reasons: changes in thermoregulation, weight gain reducing heat distribution efficiency, and heat from the growing fetus. These factors combined can make pregnant individuals feel consistently warm.

4. Menopause
Hot flashes are a hallmark symptom of menopause. These sudden sensations of warmth, often felt in the face, chest, and neck, are followed by sweating. Night sweats can also disrupt sleep and affect quality of life.

5. Anhidrosis
Anhidrosis is the inability to sweat. Because sweating is essential for regulating body temperature, people with anhidrosis are at risk of overheating. Causes may include nerve damage, clogged sweat ducts, or dehydration.

6. Fever
A fever—defined as a body temperature above 100.4°F—is usually a sign of infection or another health issue. Fevers may also occur due to certain medications, autoimmune conditions, or vaccines. They can make you feel excessively hot until the underlying cause is treated.

7. Medications
Certain medications affect how the body regulates heat. These include:

  • Anticholinergics (used for respiratory, psychiatric, or cardiovascular conditions)

  • Serotonergic drugs (such as antidepressants or antipsychotics)

  • Sympathomimetic drugs (used for conditions like glaucoma and COPD)
    Other drugs, like anesthetics, antibiotics, and diuretics, may also increase heat sensitivity.

How To Find Relief

If you’re always feeling hot, relief depends on the underlying cause. Steps include:

  • Taking medication for fevers or hot flashes (under a provider’s guidance)

  • Staying hydrated with water throughout the day

  • Wearing lightweight, breathable clothing

  • Using air conditioning or portable fans

  • Avoiding alcohol, spicy foods, and caffeine if they trigger symptoms

  • Talking to a healthcare provider about possible medication adjustments

When To See a Healthcare Provider

Occasional warmth is normal, but if you notice persistent or worsening symptoms, it’s best to seek medical care. Contact a healthcare provider if:

  • You have a fever above 103°F

  • The fever lasts more than two days

  • You experience chest pain, dizziness, or fainting

  • You develop signs of heat-related illness such as clammy skin, nausea, or rapid heartbeat

A Quick Review

Always feeling hot could be linked to conditions like diabetes, hyperthyroidism, menopause, pregnancy, fever, or anhidrosis. Medications can also play a role. While lifestyle changes and cooling strategies can provide relief, persistent symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare professional.