Managing Chronic Illness in the Heat: Summer Health Tips for Patients Receiving Biologic Therapies

Summer sunshine may lift your spirits, but if you’re living with a chronic illness, even if you are receiving biologic therapy, the heat can exacerbate symptoms and increase the risk of flare-ups.

Whether you’re managing autoimmune diseases like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), asthma, severe allergies, or neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS), staying well during warmer months requires a bit of extra care.

To help you make the best of this summer season, we’ve compiled a practical guide to empower you to protect your health and enjoy your summer safely.

1. Protect Your Medications from Heat

Medicines, including biologic therapies, are susceptible to temperature. Most must be refrigerated (typically between 36°F and 46°F) and not frozen or exposed to excessive heat.

To help preserve the integrity of your prescriptions, here are some tips for safe storage:

• Use a portable medical cooler when traveling or going out for extended periods. Make sure it’s insulated and designed specifically for temperature-sensitive medications.
• Keep medications out of hot cars, even for a few minutes. Remember, temperatures inside a parked vehicle can soar quickly.
• Store your medication in the fridge, not the freezer, and avoid placing it near the cooling element, where it could accidentally freeze.
• When in doubt, contact your pharmacist or provider to confirm storage instructions or get advice if your medication may have been exposed to high temperatures.

2. Stay Hydrated and Cool

Many chronic illnesses and the medications used to treat them can increase your risk of dehydration. Not to mention that extreme heat can also worsen inflammation, fatigue, and flare-ups.

To counter these effects:

• Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Water is best, but electrolyte drinks can be helpful if you’re sweating more than usual.
• Limit caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you.
• Wear breathable, loose-fitting clothes and light colors to help keep your body cool.
• Avoid being outside during peak heat hours (usually 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and continually seek out shade when outdoors.

3. Listen to Your Body—And Rest When Needed

Fatigue is a common symptom of chronic illnesses such as MS, lupus, and RA, and heat can make it worse.

Add physical stress induced by higher temperatures, and you must honor your body’s limits.

• Take breaks often, even if you’re running errands or spending time with friends.
• Create a cool-down plan for when you feel overheated, including cool showers, fans, or relaxing in an air-conditioned room.
• Don’t push through exhaustion. Remember, rest is vital to managing your condition, not a sign of weakness.

4. Watch for Heat-Triggered Flares

Many autoimmune and neurological conditions are sensitive to heat. For example:

• Lupus patients may experience skin rashes, joint pain, or flare-ups after sun exposure.
• MS patients often report a temporary worsening of symptoms in the heat (known as Uhthoff’s phenomenon).
• People with asthma and allergies may notice increased inflammation or breathing difficulties in hot, humid, or ozone-heavy conditions.

To minimize risks:

• Use high-SPF sunscreen, wear wide-brimmed hats, and stay covered when in direct sunlight.
• Monitor air quality before going outside, especially if you have asthma or allergies.
• Monitor symptoms and talk to your healthcare provider if something feels “off.”

5. Plan Smart for Travel or Summer Events

Summer fun doesn’t have to be off-limits, but it does require thoughtful planning.

• Pack your medications in a cooler bag if you know you’ll be outdoors for extended periods.
• Call ahead to ensure your hotel has a mini-fridge or request one.
• Give yourself recovery time before and after outings to avoid exhaustion or flare-ups.
• Share your health needs with close friends or travel companions; you don’t have to manage it alone.

You Deserve a Safe, Enjoyable Summer

Managing a chronic illness doesn’t mean giving up summer fun; it just means adapting your routine to protect your well-being.

And remember you’re not alone in this. Stay connected to your healthcare team, listen to your body, and take pride in the small wins. Whether it’s an afternoon in the shade or a road trip done your way, summer can still bring joy on your terms.