Hot weather can make symptoms worse for people who have existing chronic health conditions, including Chronic Renal Disease (CRD).

This is because there’s an increased risk of dehydration, which can be due to certain types of medication. If you have CRD, here are some tips to stay well this summer:

• Avoid taking medicines that can harm your kidneys. This can include some simple everyday painkillers. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor about any over-the-counter drugs you are taking.
• Maintain a good fluid intake. Avoid dehydration. Talk to your pharmacist for advice and promptly treat illnesses that cause it, such as diarrhoea, vomiting, or fever.
• Avoid excessive physical activity – if it’s making you sweat, don’t do it.
• Keep cool indoors and keep the windows closed while the room is cooler than it is outside. Open windows at night when the air is cooler.
• Stay out of the heat in the hottest part of the day, usually between 11am and 3pm.
• Wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen. If you are a transplant patient, it is particularly important to wear sunscreen and avoid the sun as immuno-suppressant drugs can make your skin more sensitive.

For more information and advice, visit NHS Choices at www.nhs.uk/summerhealth, or ring NHS 111.