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Multiple Sclerosis is a disease in which the immune system eats away at the protective covering of nerves. As a result of this nerve damage, the communication signals between the brain and body are severely impacted. This damage can cause fatigue, vision loss, impaired coordination and severe pain. The summer months can prove difficult for people with MS because extreme heat tends to worsen symptoms. This article focuses on ways to manage pain and beat the summer heat while living with MS.
Why Do Heat and Humidity Worsen MS?
According to the National MS Society, there are a number of ways that heat and humidity negatively impact those with MS.
MS symptoms that worsen with heat and humidity include:
- Blurred vision
- Cognitive difficulties such as problems with attention and concentration
- Fatigue/reduced energy
- Muscle weakness
- Numbness in the extremities
- Slowed reaction times
- Tremor
Heat makes it more difficult for nerves to conduct electrical impulses. As a result, the rise in summer temperatures can make people with multiple sclerosis deeply uncomfortable. The good news is that these worsened symptoms are temporary. After you cool down, symptoms typically lessen in severity.
Beat the Heat
There are several ways medical professionals suggest staying cool during the summer months when you have MS. These include:
- Hydration is Key: Extra water intake is critical during this time of the year. But you should also consider cutting back on the consumption of drinks that are high in sodium (like soda), caffeinated beverages or alcohol. Because these drinks cause more frequent urination, it can easily lead to dehydration. If you have difficulty consuming water, consider adding natural flavors to your beverage such as mint or lemon.
- Keep Your Internal Body Temperature Low: Consider wearing loose fitting or sweat whisking clothes that can help keep your body cool when it is sunny. Consider keeping your hair wet, carrying around a portable fan or other cooling device, and utilizing ice packs when it is especially hot. And of course, if you have access to a pool, lake or other body of water, hop in! It not only helps to keep your internal temperature down, but can benefit and soothe your muscles in the process.
- Evaluate Your Medications: Some MS medications may actually worsen temperature regulation symptoms. If you notice the hot heat rising, consult with your doctor to find alternatives that can get you through the summer season.
- Stay in Air Conditioning: If possible, avoid being outside when there are extreme weather alerts. Staying in a temperature controlled environment will help you to stay comfortable and regulated.
- Sweet Frozen Treats: While high sugar consumption is not ideal, shaved ices or natural flavored popsicles are a great way to maintain a low body temperature while also enjoying and celebrating the summer.
- Limit Outdoor Exercise and Activity: If you normally exercise daily, that’s great! The only recommendation is to move your activities inside during the summer. This way, you aren’t risking getting overheated or exhausting yourself while attempting to stay healthy.
- Consider Relocation: In extreme cases, doctor’s recommend individuals with MS move to climates with less extreme weather changes. A moderate climate could provide you with immense comfort and a sense of ease to beat the heat during the summer.
- Night Owls: Now is the perfect time to get out in the evenings. After the sun sets, it can feel much easier to regulate your body temperature. Peak hours of the day (between 12 and 3pm) typically increase risk of heat stroke or other heat related issues. Nighttime provides some much needed relief and a chance to try things you wouldn’t normally do during the day.
It should be noted that certain folks with MS may find symptoms worsen in extremely cold settings as well. Medical professionals recommend avoiding both extreme heat and freezing cold temperatures to remain comfortable and regulated. Want to learn more about multiple sclerosis? Join our MS group on PatientsLikeMe for more!
