You are my tribe. I struggle so much in hot weather and feel like I really suffer in heat, I'm just not 'built' for it. Everything shared here, I can relate to. Like all of you I'm already finding it really difficult now and the weather peeps are saying temperatures are going to be higher than they were last year - the very idea of that appals me and makes me want to weep. Seriously. But through trial and error (and unfortunately some spending) I've found a combination of things that works for me at the moment (whether or not this will continue if temperatures do rise above last year remains to be seen) so I thought I would offer them in the hope that one or more may prove helpful to one or more of you...
This proved a lifesaver for my beloved dog. I doubt she would have lasted the summer without it. I had tried soaking a teatowel, ringing it out and covering her with it but the towel didn't seem to stay cool for very long. This little cool vest is amazing as it stays cold for ages, can't fall off when she moves around as it's secured by the velcro strip down the back, is roomy enough for her to move freely and does not in any way prevent her from toileting. Be aware though that when it does dry out it hardens so would be uncomfortable and need removing, but as I said, once soaked it stays wet and cool for hours. Whereas before she just flopped about panting and looking forlorn and unhappy, with her little cool vest on she lay sleeping without panting. Considering the difference its made for her, I'd happily pay double.
This is the fan I have in the bedroom. One of my best buys ever. Throughout last summer and since the heat attacked us this summer, I sleep with this on all night. It's pretty much silent and I only need it on level 2. I have it on a desk facing the bed about 4/5 feet away from the bed and it keeps the whole area cool.
I do have a necklace fan (the kind you wear around your neck) but found that it took too long to charge. I do still use it when shopping etc, but for general household use I bought this little portable fan which comes in different colours for preference, is quickly charged via USB and seem to last ages once charged. Its so lightweight and easy to move around. When working at my desk I have it behind my keyboard, with the lead connected to a front USB port on my desktop. Usually only have to have it on its lowest setting, though one night during the week I did turn it up to the next level.
And finally, for anyone who suffers from sweat and discomfort under boob and/or belly, I found these to be so helpful! Washable, so soft, and extremely comfortable. I fold them lengthwise and tuck one under my boobs so that its contained within my bra and prevents any chaffing, and same with one under belly roll. I bought just one pack initially but they proved so great for me that I ordered a couple more and so I always have fresh to hand when used ones go in my underwear laundry bag - and they dry really quickly.
I really hope one or a combination of these will help one or more of you...