Hi there. My poor mum (diagnosed 1998) is currently in hospital for a spell of rehab after a sudden and severe worsening of symptoms due to the heat. Looking online I can see that the heat is something that effects PD hugely although my dad and I have only just made the connection. My question is, for others who have experienced this sudden downturn, what sort of recovery have you noticed? Whilst we were coping at home okay beforehand, watching her in the hospital is really distressing and we can’t imagine coping when she is released. New problems include, total loss of mobility, loss of fine motor skills, inability to feed herself, even worse bladder control, increased confusion. The list goes on. Any experiences of recovery (or lack of) after a heat related episode would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Hello KatePW
We’re sorry to hear about your mum and we are here to support. We have some information on this on our website which may help, you can find this here: Keeping cool this summer | Parkinson's UK.
We’d absolutely recommend speaking to your mum’s GP or Parkinson’s professional for a full medical opinion, but till then our forum members may be able to offer some advice.
All the best
Parkinson’s UK Moderation Team
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Thanks so much for reaching out and sharing what you and your family are going through, it sounds like an incredibly distressing time. We’re so sorry to hear about your mum’s sudden decline and the challenges you’re now facing.
You’re absolutely right, heat can have a significant impact on people with Parkinson’s. It can worsen symptoms like mobility, cognition, and bladder control, often quite suddenly. This is because Parkinson’s affects the body’s ability to regulate temperature and hydration, and heat can amplify fatigue and lower blood pressure, leading to a real dip in functioning.
Although everyone’s experience is different, we have heard from others in the community who’ve seen improvements after similar episodes, particularly once the person is rehydrated, well-rested, and the environment is better controlled. However, recovery may take time, and in some cases, a full return to previous levels isn’t always possible. Hospital stays can also add to disorientation and deconditioning, which might take additional rehab and support to work through.
Please don’t hesitate to call our Parkinson’s UK helpline on 0808 800 0303, our advisers can talk through what’s happening and help you explore options for care and support when your mum comes home. You’re not alone in this.
And if anyone reading has been through something similar, we’d really welcome your insights and advice here 
Sending our very best to you, your dad, and your mum.