For many of us, summer is a welcome change. Longer days, sunshine and the opportunity to spend more time outdoors can do wonders for our wellbeing. But when temperatures climb, the heat can present additional challenges for people living with long-term health conditions, particularly neurological conditions.
The good news is that with a little planning and a few practical strategies, you can continue to enjoy everything summer has to offer while protecting your health and wellbeing.
Why does hot weather affect some people more than others?
Our bodies are remarkably good at keeping our temperature within a healthy range. We cool ourselves by sweating and increasing blood flow to the skin. However, certain health conditions and some medications can make these natural cooling systems less effective.
For people living with neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's disease, stroke, spinal cord injury or motor neurone disease, the nervous system may struggle to regulate body temperature efficiently. Even a small increase in body temperature can sometimes make existing symptoms feel worse.
You may notice increased fatigue, reduced strength, poorer balance, blurred vision or changes in concentration. Although these symptoms are often temporary and improve as you cool down, they can make everyday tasks feel much harder.
People living with heart disease, respiratory conditions, diabetes, arthritis or other chronic illnesses may also experience increased tiredness, dizziness or breathlessness during periods of hot weather.
Recognising how your body responds to heat is the first step in managing it well.
Keep hydration a priority
One of the simplest ways to help your body cope with warmer temperatures is to stay well hydrated.
Rather than waiting until you feel thirsty, try drinking small amounts regularly throughout the day. Water is usually the best option, but milk, sugar-free drinks and diluted fruit juice all contribute to your daily fluid intake.
Some people reduce their fluid intake because they are worried about bladder symptoms. While this might seem sensible, becoming dehydrated can actually make bladder irritation worse and increase the risk of urinary tract infections.
If you have been advised by your doctor to limit your fluid intake because of heart or kidney problems, continue to follow the advice provided by your healthcare team.
Plan your day around the weather
Summer doesn't mean you have to stay indoors, but choosing the right time for activities can make a significant difference.
Try to schedule walks, gardening, shopping or exercise during the cooler parts of the day, usually before 11am or later in the evening. If you are outside during the hottest hours, take regular breaks in the shade and don't push through fatigue.
At PhysioFunction, we know how important it is to stay active. If you're attending physiotherapy or rehabilitation sessions and finding the heat difficult, let your therapist know. We can adjust your programme, allow for extra rest breaks or suggest alternative exercises that help you stay active without overheating.
Dress to stay cool
Loose-fitting, lightweight clothing made from breathable fabrics can help your body stay cooler. Light-coloured clothing reflects the sun more effectively than dark colours, while a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses offer valuable protection when you're outdoors.
Many people also find cooling products such as cooling towels, neck wraps or portable fans helpful, particularly during periods of prolonged hot weather.
Small changes like these can make a surprisingly big difference to your comfort.
Keep your home comfortable
It's not just being outdoors that can be challenging. Homes can become very warm during heatwaves, particularly upstairs rooms or conservatories.
Closing curtains or blinds during the day can help keep rooms cooler, while opening windows during the evening and overnight allows cooler air to circulate when it is safe to do so.
If your home becomes too hot, consider spending time in an air-conditioned public building such as a shopping centre, library or community venue until temperatures begin to fall.
Be aware of your medication
Some medications can increase your sensitivity to heat or affect how your body regulates temperature and fluid balance. This includes certain blood pressure medications, diuretics, antidepressants, antihistamines and medicines used to treat Parkinson's disease or bladder symptoms.
Never stop taking prescribed medication without medical advice. If you are concerned that your medication is making it harder to cope in the heat, speak to your GP, pharmacist or specialist nurse.
Listen to your body
Everyone responds differently to hot weather, so it's important to recognise when your body is telling you it needs a break.
Early signs that you're becoming too hot include:
- Feeling unusually tired or weak
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Headache
- Muscle cramps
- Feeling sick
- Excessive sweating
- A racing heartbeat
If this happens, move somewhere cool, drink fluids if appropriate, loosen your clothing and cool your skin with damp towels or cool water.
If someone becomes confused, loses consciousness or remains very hot despite cooling measures, seek emergency medical help immediately.
Supporting each other
Hot weather can be particularly difficult for people who live alone, have reduced mobility or rely on carers.
Checking in with family members, friends or neighbours during periods of extreme heat can make a real difference. Something as simple as making sure someone has enough cold drinks or helping them keep their home cool can prevent more serious problems from developing.
Making the most of summer
Living with a neurological or chronic health condition doesn't mean you have to miss out on summer.
By staying hydrated, planning ahead and listening to your body, you can continue to enjoy the activities that matter most to you while reducing the risk of heat-related illness.
At PhysioFunction, we're passionate about helping people remain active, independent and confident throughout the year. If you're finding that hot weather is affecting your mobility, balance, fatigue or exercise routine, speak to your physiotherapist. Together, we can adapt your rehabilitation programme so you can continue progressing safely, whatever the weather.
After all, rehabilitation doesn't stop when the temperature rises - it simply adapts, just as we do.
