ATLANTA – According to a new survey, the recent heatwaves have left Georgians achieving just over 50% of optimal sleep.

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Millions of Americans faced dangerous temperatures this summer as a heat dome blanketed huge swathes of the country. Indeed, some of these excessively high temperatures are currently affecting Georgia. Beyond the potentially life-threatening risks such as heat exhaustion and dehydration, the oppressive heat has had a major effect on Georgians’ sleep quality. According to a survey by Amerisleep, the relentless heat has significantly disrupted sleep patterns.

Amerisleep surveyed 1,000 respondents to rate their sleep quality during the heatwaves on a scale from 1 to 100%. The average respondent rated their sleep quality at a meager 56%, where 100% represents a solid 7 hours of uninterrupted deep sleep. 

“It is not just feeling drowsy and irritable the next day that is the effect of sleeping badly,” says April Mayer, a sleep expert at Amerisleep. “Consistently poor sleep, as has been the case for many people during this prolonged period of heatwaves, can have debilitating medium to long-term effects. These can include weakened immune function, increased stress levels, and a higher risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease.”

Mayer continues: “Even having AC blasting the whole night won’t guarantee a good night’s sleep. The effects of the heat during the day can have a knock-on effect at nighttime because our bodies are still recovering from the daytime heat exposure, which can disrupt our natural sleep cycles and make it harder to fall and stay asleep.”

Amerisleep also asked respondents to describe, in one word, how they reacted to the news of another set of heatwaves. The most common word to appear was ‘irritated’ (44%), followed by ‘despair’ (19%) and ‘defeated’ (19%). Just 18% responded with ‘unconcerned.’ 

The survey also found that 67% of respondents are now more convinced than ever that proactive measures need to be taken to combat the effects of climate change. This includes advocating for greener policies, supporting renewable energy initiatives, and making personal lifestyle changes to reduce carbon footprints.

Amerisleep has provided some advice on how to cope and achieve better quality sleep during heatwaves:

Optimize Air Circulation

• Use a window or portable air conditioner to cool your bedroom before sleep.
• Consider using fans to create a cross-breeze and improve air circulation.
• Open windows and use blackout curtains to block outside light.

Block Out Sunlight

• Install blackout curtains or reflective window films to prevent sunlight from heating your room.
• Keep curtains and blinds closed during the day and open them in the evening if it’s cooler outside.

Change Your Sleeping Arrangement

• Sleep on the ground floor or a lower floor, as warm air rises.
• Use innerspring or hybrid mattresses with cooling technology.
• Consider sleeping in separate beds or using separate blankets to reduce heat transfer.

Use Cooling Bedding

• Opt for breathable bedding made from cotton, linen, or bamboo.
• Use cooling pads, pillows, or even freeze your sheets before bed.
• Try placing ice packs wrapped in towels in bed.

Warm Water Showers

• Take a warm shower before bed to lower your core body temperature.
• Use a damp washcloth on your forehead or neck for instant relief.

Use Lightweight Sleepwear

• Wear light, breathable sleepwear made from natural materials like cotton.
• Avoid heavy or bulky clothing, and consider minimal clothing for maximum comfort.
• Avoid using heat-emitting devices in bed.

Take Enough Fluids

• Stay hydrated throughout the day, and consider electrolyte-infused water.
• Avoid sugary items and caffeinated beverages before bed.

Avoid Heavy Meals

• Eat lighter meals that are easier to digest to prevent metabolic heat.
• Avoid foods high in carbs, sugars, saturated fats, or dietary fiber before bedtime.

Exercise Safely for Better Sleep

Simple activities like walking in an air-conditioned mall can help improve sleep quality.

Exercise during cooler parts of the day or indoors.