Heat health

Hot weather increases the risk of dehydration, especially if you are not drinking enough water.

High temperatures can make symptoms worse for people with existing health conditions such as heart or breathing problems, diabetes or dementia.

Heat illness happens when the body becomes too hot due to over exertion or high temperatures. Early symptoms can include dizziness or muscle cramps. Without action, this can quickly develop into heat exhaustion or heat stroke, which can be life‑threatening.

This can occur when sweat becomes trapped under the skin, often due to excessive sweating or prolonged exposure to heat.

Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK. Too much sun increases the risk, and exposure to sunlight can also damage your eyes. Use sunscreen and follow sun safety advice. Report any changes to moles or unusual skin growths to your GP as soon as possible.

Hay fever affects around 1 in 4 people in the UK. Tree and grass pollen are the main triggers, although weeds and shrubs can also cause symptoms. Pollen levels are usually higher on hot, dry days. Fungal spores can also cause symptoms, particularly in late summer and autumn.