Summer Hints & Tips

We’ve had some record-breaking temperatures already, and with more sunshine hopefully on the way over the coming weeks, here are a few Summer Health hints and tips on how to avoid some of the main risks:

• Keep your cool! 
• Have plenty of cold drinks, and avoid excess alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks
• Eat cold foods, particularly salads and fruit with a high-water content
• Take a cool shower, bath or body wash
• Sprinkle water over the skin or clothing, or keep a damp cloth on the back of your neck

Look after your meds

Some medications can affect how your body responds to heat.  This includes diuretics, certain antidiabetics and laxatives.  Ask your Pharmacist whether any of your medicines could make you more sensitive to heat.

Sun Safety

We know sunscreen is important and the NHS’s general advice is a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 to protect against UVB and at least four-star UVA protection.  Of course, the best protection from the sun is staying out of it at the hottest parts of the day, from 11am to 3pm.

Keep hydrated

During hot weather it’s even more important to drink plenty of fluids like water – especially for the elderly or if you have a health condition such as diabetes. For those reluctant to drink water, why not try homemade ice lollies made with watered-down fruit juice or squash?

Bugs and bits

Most insect bites and stings are not serious and will get better within a few hours or days.  There’s lots of help available from nhs.uk and you can also buy creams for itching and antihistamines from your Pharmacy to have at home in case you need them. See link to helpful leaflet

Leaflet: Insect Bites and Stings - Sirona care & health

Published: Jul 11, 2025