Endometriosis Heat Wave Awareness
This resource has been written with thanks to our Far North Queensland Coordinator and SES Volunteer, Lucy.
While everyone is at risk of heat related illnesses, those who live with chronic illnesses like Endometriosis and/or chronic pain are at great risk. It’s important to understand the impacts that extreme heat can have on your health, and know the strategies that you can implement to overcome these risks.
General Strategies include
Learning about Heatwaves from The Bureau of Meteorology https://www.bom.gov.au/resources/learn-and-explore/heatwave-knowledge-centre
Register for Heat Wave Warnings using the BOM Weather App
Make a Heat Wave Health Plan with your GP. Some reference material is available here:
The Risks
Dehydration
Heat increases risk of dehydration, alongside the regular impacts of dehydration, those with Endometriosis can experience increased inflammation, bloating and cramping.
Heat And Nervous System Hypersensitivity
Endometriosis and chronic pain are both known to elevate nervous system sensitivity, and the physical impacts of heat stress will likely exacerbate this leading to fatigue, increased pain, sleep disruption, and psychological distress.
Heat Related Illness
Heat related illnesses include heat exhaustion, heat stroke, heat cramps and heat rash. While everyone can develop these illnesses, Endometriosis, as a chronic illness, means you are more vulnerable. Your body is already working to overcome inflammation, cramping, and other symptoms, so the pathway to heat related illness is shorter.
Medication
It is important to understand the impact that heat can have on your medications. Additionally, the effectiveness or impact of medications can change depending on the environment you’re in.
Diet
We often feel a reduced appetite during heatwaves, and some foods can require more energy to digest than others. Combining this with some of the inflammatory affects those with Endometriosis can experience from food, what you eat during heatwaves can really matter.
The Strategies
Dehydration
Ensure that you have water available, and are drinking regularly. Consider adding electrolyte drinks if needed to maintain hydration. Generally thirst indicates that you are beginning to become dehydrated. Make sure you listen to your body. Regular consumption of smaller amounts of water is best.
Heat And Nervous System Hypersensitivity andHeat Related Illness
Reduce your exposure to heat. Where possible, stay inside to avoid extreme heat, using cooling systems like fans or air conditioners to reduce your exposure to the problem. If you can’t avoid the exposure, than work to reduce its impact by;
Participating in water based activities for exercise alternatives
Wearing sun protection; hat, sunscreen, long sleeves, wet washer around the neck, sun umbrella
Seek shade and or shelter where possible
Stay hydrated
Medication
Check the storage temperatures of your medications and ensure you can keep them at appropriate temperatures, particularly if you have to travel. Ask your GP or other medical professional if there are any changes you should make to your medication regime in heatwaves.
Diet
Mediterranean diets are generally accepted as a low inflammatory option. Additionally, consider adding foods that are high in electrolytes and avoid highlighting processed foods or substances like alcohol which increase risk of dehydration. Always consult your health professional about dietary changes.
Reference used to make this resource
https://www.health.vic.gov.au/environmental-health/extreme-heat-information-for-clinicians
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/heat-related-health-problems
https://southsidepainspecialists.com/6-tips-for-dealing-with-chronic-pain-during-hot-weather/
https://www.bom.gov.au/resources/learn-and-explore/heatwave-knowledge-centre
https://metronorth.health.qld.gov.au/news/beat-the-heat
https://www.heart.org/en/news/2024/06/26/as-summer-heat-cranks-up-our-appetites-may-cool-off
