Heatwave information for our LTC patients
Please see information from the the Devon and Cornwall ICB about coping with the heatwave while having a Long term condition.
Mental health conditions - Some mental health conditions and medications can affect the body’s ability to regulate temperature or recognise when someone is becoming unwell.
Patients should:
• Stay connected with family, friends and support services.
• Maintain regular routines where possible.
• Seek help if they feel their mental health is worsening during periods of hot weather.
Dementia and cognitive impairment - People living with dementia may be less likely to recognise when they are becoming too hot or dehydrated.
Families, carers and support workers should:
• Offer regular drinks throughout the day.
• Ensure living spaces remain as cool as possible.
• Encourage the use of lightweight clothing.
• Check regularly for signs of dehydration or heat exhaustion.
Kidney disease - People with kidney disease can be at increased risk of dehydration and heat-related illness.
Patients should:
• Follow any individual fluid advice provided by their clinical team.
• Monitor for symptoms such as dizziness, headaches or reduced urine output.
• Contact their healthcare team if they have concerns about fluid intake or symptoms.
Heart conditions - Hot weather causes blood vessels to widen, making the heart work harder to maintain blood pressure. People living with heart failure, coronary heart disease or other cardiovascular conditions may find symptoms become worse during extreme heat.
Patients should:
• Stay well hydrated unless they have been advised to restrict fluids.
• Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day.
• Seek medical advice if they experience worsening breathlessness, dizziness, swelling or chest discomfort.
Diabetes - Heat can affect blood glucose levels and increase the risk of dehydration. Some diabetes medications and insulin may also be affected by high temperatures.
Patients should:
• Check blood glucose levels regularly, particularly if feeling unwell.
• Keep insulin and other medicines stored
• Drink water regularly and be alert to signs of dehydration.
• Seek advice if blood glucose levels become difficult to control.
Respiratory conditions - People with asthma, COPD and other lung conditions may find hot weather, humidity and poor air quality can worsen symptoms.
Patients should:
• Continue using prescribed inhalers and medications.
• Carry reliever inhalers when out and about.
• Monitor local air quality and pollen forecasts if these are known triggers.
• Seek advice if symptoms become difficult to manage.