GCA and hot weather

[christine2715]

I am going to Majorca on the 31st May for a week - all inclusive - with the hope that if I am ill I can rest by the pool. It is very hot there at the moment. Does anyone know if the heat makes the illness worse. Have to take factor 50 sunscreen because of the pills I am on. So looking forward to it.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Hi Christine,

Won't make the illness worse as such, but you may feel a bit more fatigued than pre PMR. Depends how you are in hotter climates normally,

I've been to Spain for previous 3 summers with GCA, albeit on lowish doses of Pred and been okay.

Just be sensible, and limit time in direct sun.

Enjoy!

[SheffieldJane]

The direct sun is best avoided and we do feel the heat but I bet you'll be fine. Keep well hydrated and carry on pacing yourself. I hope you have a lovely time!

[PMRpro Ambassador]

One friend who has a villa in southern Spain finds her PMR all but disappears when she is there - only to return as she gets off the plane at Luton or wherever! I find I can't sit in direct sun once the temperature has risen - fine at 15-20C but much warmer and I need the shade. But at 25C plus I always did move my chair/sunbed around to follow the shade while everyone else was frying...

[christine2715]

Many thanks to everyone - will take your advice, sounds like it will be ok.

[PollyF]

Just back from two weeks in Spain and never felt better while away. I walked a few miles each day no problem, sat in the sun 3-4 hours daily, had a few G&T's and slept like a baby.

[christine2715]

I think I must be in worse health than you - I cannot walk half a mile! Today a really bad day but I think you are right that the change might make a difference