As politicians argue over climate change policy, GPs continue to be at the forefront of treating people suffering the effects of extreme heat. 2018 was the third hottest year on record, and so far, we think you’d agree this Summer has been a scorcher! As well as being more subject to direct sun damage (remember that the UV radiation down here is as severe if not more so than further north), the impact of heat on health includes stress to the cardiovascular, respiratory and renal systems. Stay covered, keep cool and hydrated, and discuss and changes that you may need to make to medications over Summer with your GP to avoid dehydration.