Sun is often the reason we travel. But heat changes a few things for people on dialysis, and knowing them helps you enjoy every day.
Why heat is tricky on dialysis
When it is hot, you feel thirsty more often. Yet your kidneys no longer remove extra fluid, so everything you drink stays in your body until the next session. At the same time, you may sweat a little more and your blood pressure can drop, especially after dialysis.
Practical tips
- Stay in the shade during the hottest hours, usually from 12:00 to 16:00
- Cool down from the outside: hat, wet towel on the neck, fan, a dip in the pool
- Suck on ice cubes or frozen grapes instead of drinking large glasses (count them in your fluid allowance)
- Limit salt: salty food is the main cause of thirst
- Get up slowly after a session if you feel light-headed
- Protect your skin with sunscreen: some medications make it more sensitive
When to call the centre
Contact the dialysis team quickly if you have dizziness, cramps, shortness of breath, very swollen legs or rapid weight gain between sessions.
Learn more
Find the right season with our weather chart.
Planning a trip on dialysis?
Tell us your dates: we book your sessions near your hotel and reply within 12 hours.
Useful resources
This article is general information and does not replace the advice of your nephrologist or renal team.