Pressure sores: reducing risk in hot weather

Drink water-based drinks regularly during the day.

Do not wait until you are thirsty!

Aim to drink 8 glasses (or 1.5 litres) of water every day.

Use cotton bed linen and cotton clothes to help you stay cool.

Wear closed sandals without socks. This will allow your feet to keep cool.

Use a fan or cool your skin with a damp cloth, spray, or cool water. This will help if you are feeling hot.

If you are sitting for a long time or using a pressure cushion on your chair, stand up or reposition yourself.

Do this every hour by lifting your bottom. This will take the pressure off and reduce sweating.

If you are using a pressure-relieving boot and it is making you feel hot, you can remove it for 20 to 30 minutes.

Check your skin carefully when you remove the boot. If you find any red areas or sore skin, contact your GP or let us know (see Contacts below).

Use a pillow underneath your calf so your feet can hang freely. This will reduce the risk of pressure on your heels.

Take a cool bath or shower before going to bed.

If you have carers, ask them to help you with a cool sponging before you go to bed.