Today and tomorrow it’s predicted to reach record breaking temperatures of 40*c in some parts of the UK. It's nice to be able to enjoy the summer weather but wherever you are, we hope you manage to stay cool and be safe in the sunshine.
This blog can be a useful resource if you're looking for some guidance with keeping cool in the heat. If you have any tips that you'd like to share, there's a comment box at the bottom of the page.
The heat may affect you in different ways when your living with cancer. You may find that the side effects of treatment are making it difficult for you to stay hydrated and regulate your body temperature. On the Community, there are people who understand what you’re going through so we’re sharing some tips to help you stay cool during this heatwave.
Tips from members:
There’s been lots of discussions on the Community over the past few days and below are some of the suggestions members have for staying cool.
“I do find washing my hands in cold water helps a bit if you haven’t already tried that.”
Community member, Living with incurable cancer forum
“I don't think I would like the wet or cold clothes myself.... but if it helps..... I do often change my clothes during the day. I suppose that's a similar effect.”
Community member, Breast cancer forum
“Blinds and windows closed, put a fan on if you got one...drink warm drinks, not hot and not cold.”
Community member, Living with incurable cancer forum
“Hope you and everyone else cope O.K. with the 41 degrees. Even here in Adelaide that is a very hot day and we keep our heads down and stay inside in the air conditioning and drink plenty of water… We 'slip, slop, slap' here and stay in the shade. That is, we slip on a shirt, slop on some sunscreen, slap on a hat when out in the sun.”
Community member, Head and neck cancer forum
Put hot water bottle in freezer and use to cool yourself down. Wet flannels on head when needed.”
Community member, Living with incurable cancer forum
“I keep like a glass of water in the fridge. That’s lovely especially when it’s hot as I know it’s there chilling and the glass alone keeps me cool”
Community member, Ileostomy, colostomy and stoma support forum
“An easy tip is when you get up for the toilet in the night, turn your pillow over so you get the cool side.”
Community member, Prostate cancer forum
“I always use factor 50 on my neck it’s routine and factor 30… I wear my hat as well. My gazebo went up this afternoon so I will be in the shade with my book and water.”
Community member, Head and neck cancer forum
“When you using your fans place a freezer pack or frozen bottle of water in front of air flow to cool the air even further.”
Community member, Breast cancer forum
Where can you get more guidance about staying safe in the sun?
What do you do to keep cool? Share your tips for keeping cool in the warm weather in the comment box below.
