Evidence of heat sensitivity in people with Parkinson’s disease

Understanding how heat affects people with Parkinson’s disease is crucial for making informed medical decisions and ensuring patient safety. A recent study surveyed 247 people with Parkinson’s, finding that 79% became more sensitive to heat since their diagnosis. Heat worsened both motor and non-motor symptoms, including difficulties with walking, balance, stiffness, tremors, fatigue, sleep, sweating, concentration, and dizziness. Over half reported that heat impacted their ability to work and perform daily tasks. Heat sensitivity is common and significantly affects the quality of life for people with Parkinson’s. As the incidence of Parkinson’s is increasing globally, addressing heat sensitivity in clinical care and healthcare planning is important, especially in the context of climate change.