Feeling Extra Tired in This Heat? It Might Not Just Be the Weather!

Malaysia’s brutal heat is more than an annoyance — it can mask serious health issues like adrenal insufficiency. Learn why constant fatigue, dehydration, and brain fog might be more than just “bad weather” and when you should get tested.

WORDS LIM TECK CHOON

FEATURED EXPERT DR LIM CHONG WEI Consultant Endocrinologist and Internal Medicine Specialist Sunway Medical Centre

Malaysia’s scorching weather is not just uncomfortable. It could be hiding serious health problems!

According to consultant endocrinologist Dr Lim Chong Wei, symptoms such as constant tiredness, dehydration, and brain fog may point to adrenal insufficiency.

AN OVERVIEW OF THE ADRENAL GLANDS

• The adrenal glands are small, triangular glands sit above your kidneys.
• They produce vital hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline.
• These hormones keep your blood pressure steady, regulate stress, and help your body handle daily challenges.
• If your adrenal glands cannot produce enough of them, things go downhill fast.

ADRENAL INSUFFICIENCY

Adrenal insufficiency occurs when the adrenal glands cannot produce enough hormones, especially cortisol. 

Dr Lim adds that:

• The condition commonly affects people between the ages of 30 and 50.
• It is usually associated with autoimmune conditions like type 1 diabetes, coeliac disease, and thyroid disorder.
• However, infections like tuberculosis, HIV, or certain fungal infections can trigger it too at any age.

WHY OUR HOT WEATHER CAN MAKE THINGS WORSE

Malaysia’s relentless heat and humidity cause dehydration and fatigue in anyone.

However, for those with adrenal insufficiency, these symptoms can worsen and easily be mistaken for heat exhaustion.

“Dehydration, poor focus, nausea, and fatigue can mask adrenal problems,” says Dr. Lim. “That is why people should get tested if these issues persist.”

HOW ADRENAL INSUFFICIENCY IS DIAGNOSED

The condition is tricky to confirm because its symptoms mimic other problems.

Doctors use a Short Synacthen test to check for adrenal insufficiency.

• This is a simple procedure where synthetic hormones are injected to see how your adrenal glands respond.
• “If cortisol levels stay low, it confirms adrenal insufficiency,” explains Dr. Lim.

MANAGING ADRENAL INSUFFICIENCY IN THE HOT WEATHER

Adrenal insufficiency has no cure at present, but it can be managed.

Always Stay Hydrated

• Always carry water and drink before thirst hits, especially in hot, humid weather.
• “Ideally, everyone should carry a bottle of water with them and ensure they stay hydrated, especially in hot and humid conditions,” Dr Lim states.

Without treatment, adrenal insufficiency can spiral into an adrenal crisis — a life-threatening emergency where blood pressure plummets, and patients may fall into a coma.

“Up to 20% of people in shock could die from an untreated adrenal crisis,” warns Dr Lim.