From Dr. Kirsten Protherough | GP & Founder, Home Visit Healthcare
As temperatures climb across the UK and Europe, many of us are feeling tired, dehydrated, and just not quite ourselves. But for adults aged 40 and over, this heatwave can be more than uncomfortable — it’s a wake-up call to check in on your health.
🔎 Why Heat Affects Us More As We Age
You don’t have to be “elderly” to feel the strain. Once we hit 40+, our bodies begin to:
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Lose water more easily, especially if we’re on certain medications
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Process heat less efficiently due to hormonal and metabolic changes
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Ignore thirst signals, particularly when distracted or under pressure
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Become more vulnerable to blood pressure drops, fatigue, and dizziness
💧 Most Adults Are Already Dehydrated
Did you know nearly 60% of adults drink less than the recommended 2 litres a day? That’s before you even factor in heatwaves, sweating, or medication effects.
Even mild dehydration can lead to:
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Poor concentration
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Headaches and fatigue
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Dizziness or palpitations
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Sluggish digestion and low mood
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Increased risk of kidney stones or infections
🚨 Watch for Signs Your Body Needs Support
If you’re noticing:
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You’re more tired than usual
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Your mood is off, or you feel “foggy”
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You’re skipping meals or struggling to hydrate
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Your blood pressure feels unstable, or you’re dizzy on standing
It may be time to book in for a health review.
✅ Easy Hydration Wins
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Keep water visible and accessible – carry a bottle everywhere
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Use drinks you enjoy – herbal teas, squash, lemon water, or coconut water
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Eat more hydrating foods – cucumber, melon, berries, soups, and yogurt
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Limit alcohol and caffeine on hotter days
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Check urine colour – it should be pale straw yellow
🩺 Your 40s and 50s Are the Perfect Time for a Health Reset
If you’ve been meaning to “get checked out” or “make your health a priority” — now’s the time.
I offer discreet, personalised Well Woman and Well Man Checks from my private GP clinic in Inkberrow, Worcestershire, as well as home visits across the region.
🩺 Services Available:
At Revival Clinic, Inkberrow (Tuesdays 5.30–8.30pm):
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Well Woman / Well Man Health Assessments
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Full GP Consultation
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Lifestyle risk review + blood tests
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ECG, cardiovascular screening & health planning
Home Visits (Worcs, Warks, Glos, North Cotswolds):
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Ideal for busy professionals, parents, or those wanting private care in their own home
📞 Book Now
If you’re over 40 and want a bespoke health check, peace of mind, or just time to talk through your concerns:
📞 Call 0330 133 9093
📧 Email info@homevisithealthcare.info
🌐 Visit: www.homevisithealthcare.co.uk
Stay safe, stay cool, and take this heat as your sign to prioritise you.
— Dr. Kirsten Protherough
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