Hot Weather and Brain Injury: Ways to Keep Cool and Stay Safe

Heat can contribute to fatigue, headaches, dizziness, difficulty concentrating and irritability. Some people may also find that their balance, memory or ability to process information becomes more challenging during hot weather.

Why can hot weather affect people with brain injury?

The brain plays an important role in regulating body temperature. Following a brain injury, some people may find it harder to adapt to changes in temperature or recognise when they are becoming too hot.

Heat can also increase fatigue, which is already a common challenge after brain injury. When energy levels are lower, everyday tasks can feel more difficult and symptoms may become more noticeable.

Some medications commonly prescribed after brain injury may also affect how the body responds to heat or increase the risk of dehydration. If you have concerns about how your medication may be affected by hot weather, speak to your GP, pharmacist or healthcare professional.

Here are a few tips that can help you stay comfortable and safe.

Stay hydrated

Drink water regularly throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty. Carrying a water bottle can be a useful reminder.

Keep your environment cool

Close curtains or blinds during the hottest part of the day and open windows when temperatures are lower. A fan may also help improve comfort.

A cool shower, damp flannel, cooling towel or cold drink can help lower your body temperature and provide relief on particularly hot days. Ice packs can also be effective when wrapped in a towel and applied to areas such as the neck or wrists. Avoid placing ice packs directly onto the skin, as this can cause irritation or cold burns.

Plan activities carefully

If possible, avoid strenuous activity during the hottest hours of the day. Consider scheduling appointments, exercise or outdoor activities for the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler.

Wear light clothing

Choose loose-fitting, lightweight clothing and wear a hat when outdoors to help protect yourself from direct sunlight.

Take regular breaks

Listen to your body and pace yourself. Resting in a cool, shaded area can help prevent fatigue from building up.

Look out for signs of overheating

Seek a cooler place and drink water if you notice symptoms such as:

• Feeling unusually tired or weak
• Excessive sweating or no sweating
• Dizziness or light-headedness
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Difficulty concentrating
• Increased confusion or irritability

If symptoms are severe, worsen quickly, or you are concerned about someone’s safety, seek medical advice.

Check on loved-ones who may be struggling in the heat.

Remember to be kind to yourself

Recovery after brain injury can be affected by many factors, including the weather. It is normal to have days when symptoms feel more challenging.

Taking things more slowly during periods of hot weather is not a setback. Pacing yourself, staying hydrated and asking for support when needed can help you stay well and continue doing the things that matter to you.

If you would like to find out more about the support available through Oxford Head Injury Services, please get in touch with our team.