Hot Weather Enjoying the sun is one of the things many people look forward to in the summer or on holiday. But if you have Addison’s or adrenal insufficiency, it can be harder to manage your condition in the hot weather and you need to take precautions to keep feeling well and your adrenal insufficiency as well controlled as possible. Check out our top tips for when you’re out and about in the sun Manage your salt & fluid balance Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water. But be aware that bottled water is often very low in sodium and other minerals, so it can just go straight through you. Keep your salt levels up by enjoying salty foods, snacks and consider rehydration fluids or salts (available in most chemists). Make sure your fludrocortisone dose is adequate, beware of light headedness and listen to your body. Your dose will be based on UK temperatures mostly under 20°C so don’t be afraid to top up your dose of fludrocortisone if you feel you need to (see ‘The doctor’s view’ in our Living with Addison's book and our "Why Salt?" blog). A reliable sign you need more fludrocortisone is feeling light-headed, often started with a feeling of being washed out and drained Listen to your body! Stay cool and keep out of the sun. Dress sensibly – long, light, loose clothes and a hat in direct sunshine. It is easy to want to do everything when you’re travelling. You want to pack all the sights and experiences in, with early starts and late nights. You may not feel stressed but think of all the new places, people, the language barriers, the different food. Addison's and adrenal insufficiency have a knack of catching up with us when we overdo things, so watch for the signs that you need a rest, or consider an extra half tablet. Stay cool - storing your medication Check if your medication needs to be kept at a certain temperature. Solid medicines (tablets and capsules) are usually stable for a short time above 25°C – just store them somewhere cool, dark and shaded. Check how your medication should be stored (e.g. in a sealed container, to block out light). Cool bags or pouches designed for items like insulin can also help keep medication cool in summer and are available online or speak with your pharmacist. Hydrocortisone sodium succinate (previously known as Solu-Cortef) is more stable in hot weather (above 25ºC) so is a good option for when going abroad. In extreme heat, some medication may need to be refrigerated to keep cool. If putting in the fridge you need to be aware of moisture damage. In the short term, blister packaging should protect from the risk of any moisture damaging the formulation. The option of refrigeration can help during heatwaves, though we wouldn't recommend it long-term. Be aware of any change to your medication. Degradation takes temperature and time. If your medicine has changed colour, developed an unusual smell, changed texture or looks different in any way, this could signal heat damage. Discard and order replacements. If you are still worried, you may be able to contact individual manufacturers for additional and specific advice on your situation. Thank you to Matthew Heppel, endocrinology pharmacist and Clinical Advisory Panel member, for clarifying the guidance on medication storage. Additional resources For general advice on Travel, visit our comprehensive page covering all the things to consider before and during your holiday, regardless of your destination. Travelling Follow our links below to head straight to information on a particular topic related to hot weather and travel abroad: Medication Adrenal Crisis Guideline Translations Why Salt? Airport Security Emergency Injection Kits 3-month supply of essential steroid medication Whether you're newly diagnosed or have lived with the condition for years - please join our community and support our cause! You'll receive the latest expert advice, guidance and ADSHG news, whilst being part of our inspiring and supportive community. Become a member today! Join the ADSHG Say hello! Follow us on X/Twitter, Bluesky, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, TikTok and YouTube. Manage Cookie Preferences