Keeping cool this summer

Tips for coping in the heat

Keep hydrated

Make sure you drink lots of fluids, especially water. Try to avoid caffeine, hot drinks and lots of alcohol.

Stay indoors

If you can, stay indoors between 11am and 3pm when the sun is at its hottest. If you do go out, stay in the shade where possible.

Ensure you have enough medicine

People with Parkinson's may find their symptoms worsen in the heat. Try to make sure you have enough medication, food and drink at home, so you don't need to go out when the sun is at its hottest.

You can order repeat prescriptions online using services such as the NHS App or the NHS website’s repeat prescription service. Your prescriptions are then sent directly to a pharmacy of your choice. This means you do not have to go out in hot weather to collect a paper prescription from your GP surgery. Read more about ordering prescriptions online.

Many pharmacies offer a home delivery service for prescriptions. You should ask your pharmacist for more information about the services they provide. 

Keep cool

Stay cool by wearing loose cotton clothing and by splashing cold water on your face or the back of your neck. Try and find the coolest room in the house, so you can stay there during the heat of the day.

Wearing sunglasses, hats or protective headwear can help to keep the sun at bay, as well as reducing the risk of sunburn and heat stroke.

Having the right breathable activewear and footwear can keep you more comfortable and reduce how much you sweat.

Staying active

Being physically active is important if you have Parkinson’s, but if you are exercising outdoors, try to avoid any strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day. Instead, try doing something early in the morning or evening when it is cooler. 

Plan ahead and make sure you have time for regular breaks, and that you have enough water (or somewhere to refill bottles). 

Before heading out alone, tell someone where you are going and how long you are likely to be. Agree how you'll contact each other if your plans change.

It's not just outdoor activities to consider. An air conditioned gym might feel cool, but you may still feel tired, especially if you are doing cardio or weight training.

Parkinson's medication

Your medication will continue to work in hot weather and will be absorbed as normal. But remember to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and help you swallow your medication.

Store your Parkinson’s drugs somewhere cool and dry, such as a closed cupboard.

Rotigotine skin patch (Neupro)

Make sure that the patch is kept out of direct sunlight. If you're outside, cover the patch with loose clothing and avoid prolonged exposure to the heat. You must store Neupro below 25 degrees C.

Low blood pressure

Some people with Parkinson’s have low blood pressure (hypotension). During hot weather, blood vessels become larger as a way of cooling the blood down. This can reduce your blood pressure even more.

If you do have low blood pressure, don’t sit in the sun or a hot environment for too long. Try to avoid a lot of activity when it’s hot and make sure you drink plenty of liquids. If you feel too hot, use a fan or a cold flannel to cool yourself down.

If you feel unwell

If you start to feel unwell, make sure you drink water and try to find somewhere cool to rest. If possible, have a wash to cool down.

Call the non-emergency NHS helpline for advice if you start feeling unwell. These are:

• 111 in England, Scotland or Wales
• 0300 123 3211 in Northern Ireland.

If you experience breathlessness, chest pain, confusion, dizziness or weakness, or any cramps start to get worse or don't go away, you may have heat exhaustion. There's no need to panic but you will need to seek medical help immediately.

If you know someone who has Parkinson's

If your friend, relative or neighbour has Parkinson's, it's especially important to check on them regularly during very hot weather. 

Visiting, calling or texting your loved one regularly can give you both peace of mind. There are other ways you can help if you are local, such as offering to do someone’s shopping. 

• Read our advice for staying well in winter.