How Warm Weather Can Improve Certain Health Conditions
As the UK enters peak summer, Saga Health Insurance reveals the health benefits of warmer weather, and the conditions that can improve with a dose of sunshine.
For many, summer is more than just a mood-booster, it can also bring real physical relief. From arthritis to hypothyroidism, several chronic conditions can improve with sunshine, higher temperatures, and longer days.
In partnership with GP Dr Deborah Lee, Saga Health Insurance has ranked the top conditions that can improve in summer and shares expert advice on making the most of the season safely.
Important note: While warmer weather may bring welcome relief from certain symptoms, sunshine is not a cure-all. Many chronic conditions require ongoing treatment and management. Saga Health Insurance emphasises that individuals should always consult their GP or specialist before making any changes to prescribed treatment plans.
The conditions that can improve in warm weather
| Condition | Overview | Why it improves in summer |
| 1. Arthritis | A condition that causes pain and inflammation in the joints. Common in older adults and can affect mobility. | Warmth helps reduce joint stiffness and pain. Better blood circulation, higher vitamin D levels from the sun, and more physical activity, which are all often associated with summer, also ease symptoms. |
| 2. Eczema | A chronic skin condition that leads to dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. Often triggered by allergens, stress, or changes in weather. | Sunlight has anti-inflammatory effects and summer humidity helps keep skin hydrated, potentially reducing flare-ups.However, extreme heat and increased sweating may worsen symptoms, especially in skin folds and joint areas like behind the knees and inner elbows. It’s important to manage sweat and stay cool to avoid irritation. |
| 3. Psoriasis | An autoimmune skin condition that causes rapid skin cell turnover, leading to thickened plaques. | UVB exposure can slow skin cell turnover and improve plaque symptoms. Higher vitamin D levels may also play a role. However, excessive heat and sweating may aggravate psoriasis in some cases, so balancing sun exposure with skin care and hydration is key. |
| 4. Asthma (non-pollen related) | A condition that affects the airways, making breathing difficult. Triggered by cold air, dust, or infections. | Higher humidity means there’s fewer cold, dry air triggers and being outside more reduces indoor allergen exposure which can ease breathing. |
| 5. Raynaud’s Syndrome | A condition where blood flow to fingers and toes is restricted, usually in response to cold or stress. | Warmer weather reduces painful episodes triggered by cold temperatures. |
| 6. Headaches (non-migrainous) | Tension or stress-related headaches that are not linked to migraines. | Vitamin D’s anti-inflammatory effect may help reduce the frequency of tension headaches. |
| 7. Hypothyroidism | A condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones, slowing down body functions. | Thyroid hormone levels can naturally rise in summer, potentially reducing the need for medication (under medical guidance). |
| 8. Lupus | An autoimmune disease that causes widespread inflammation in the body. | Sunlight exposure can boost Vitamin D levels, which may be beneficial for lupus sufferers. However, it’s crucial to balance sun exposure with the risk of flares caused by UV radiation. |
| 9. Multiple Sclerosis (MS) | A long-term condition affecting the brain and nerves. | A Danish study found the lowest MS relapse rates occurred in July, with researchers pointing to factors like increased sunlight, better vitamin D levels, and fewer respiratory infections as possible reasons. Outdoor activity and natural light exposure may also support mood and energy levels, which can benefit those living with MS. |
Expert tips: how to make the most of the summer health boost
According to Dr Lee, people living with these conditions can take simple steps to maximise summer’s natural health benefits without risking sun damage or overheating.
1. Top-up Vitamin D levels safely
“Sunshine is the best natural source of vitamin D, which supports bone health, immunity and mood. Just 15 minutes of daylight exposure on the arms and face may be enough for fair-skinned people to top up levels, while darker skin tones may need up to 45 minutes.
“Aim to do this outside of peak UV hours, before 11am or after 3pm, and always apply SPF 30+ afterwards to protect your skin. If you have a skin condition like eczema, consider using SPF50 and consult your GP or dermatologist for advice.”
2. Your skin needs up to 3L more water a day in hot weather
“Hot weather increases how much water we lose through sweat, meaning you may need 2–3L more than usual on very warm days.
“Aim to drink at least 100ml every 20 minutes during the day, that’s around 2.7L (10–12 glasses) a day for women, and 3.7L (12–15 glasses) for men, and more if you’re active or outdoors.
“Water is best. Avoid tea, coffee, alcohol, and fizzy drinks, as they can dehydrate you. Unless you’re on fluid restrictions, it’s better to drink more than less, your body will naturally get rid of any extra.”
3. Consider year-round vitamin D supplements to maintain summer health benefits
”Nearly half of UK adults have low vitamin D levels, including almost a third (29%) of over-65s. All UK adults are recommended to take vitamin D supplements from October to March to maintain levels beyond summer, or even all year round in some cases.”
4. You might need more sleep in summer
“Longer, lighter evenings naturally support better sleep and more social interaction, both proven to boost mental health, particularly in older adults.
“But quality sleep can suffer in hot weather, warm nights can make it harder to fall and stay asleep, leading to daytime fatigue. Your body works harder to regulate its temperature, which can disrupt your sleep cycle.
“Keep your bedroom cool, use light, breathable bedding, and aim for a consistent routine. You may also find you need more sleep than usual in the heat, as your body expends more energy staying cool.”
5. Move more, whatever your pace
“Summer typically makes it easier to stay active. Adults should aim for 2.5 hours of moderate activity a week. Brisk walking, swimming, and even gardening all count.
“Older adults may prefer gentle activities like housework, yoga or even armchair yoga. Joining a community walking group is a great way to stay motivated and social.
“Low-impact exercise like swimming or hydrotherapy can ease joint pain without strain. Hydrotherapy is available on the NHS and is especially good for those with arthritis.”
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