If you have multiple sclerosis, exposure to heat may cause symptoms like dizziness, sweating, and increased heart rate. To avoid these problems, read on for seven heat-beating tips.
If you have multiple sclerosis (MS) and are taking a hot shower, spending time in the sun, or even just preparing a meal on the stove, you may find your symptoms flaring up.
This is because MS causes nerves to lose their conductive coating (also known as a myelin sheath), often making them more sensitive to heat and temperature changes.
Keep reading for tips on how to beat the heat and avoid triggering symptoms.
It may sound obvious, but it can be smart to stay indoors in the air conditioning to help keep MS symptoms in check.
Tune in to the forecast. Cancel plans for outdoor plans and chill out at home on days when high temperatures or high humidity is predicted.
If you don’t have air conditioning in your house, a trip to somewhere that does — like the movie theater or mall — may help you beat the worst of the heat.
Don’t underestimate the value of simple products, such as a cloth hat dipped in water to cool your head.
Cooling packs meant for picnic coolers can double as devices that you can use to dab on your neck, forehead, and wrists.
There are also a number of cooling products to choose from on the market. Cooling vests, caps, and neck wraps can be cold-treated to help you beat the heat — especially during exercise and outdoor activities.
The cooling power of liquids can come to the rescue. For temporary relief, try popsicles or ice water.
For convenience, try freezing a plastic bottle filled with water and keep it by your bed at night. This will allow you to cool down without having to get up and fish through the fridge.
Try spending time in a pool with a temperature lower than 85°F (29.4°C). Keeping the water temperature low will give you a chance to swim or do water exercises without worrying about increasing your core temperature too much.
For added cooling power, keep your swimsuit on after you leave the pool. A wet bathing suit helps keep your temperature low when you’re out of the water.
Equipment doesn’t need to be fancy to be effective. An oscillating fan that can be moved between different rooms in your home can provide fast relief when you feel too warm.
Try turning on the ceiling fan when you’re taking a shower or bath. This can help circulate air in the bathroom and keep you cooler.
Think layers when you get dressed. That way, you can remove layers as necessary to decrease your body temperature.
When you’re outdoors, it’s especially important to wear loose, lightweight clothing that’s considered “breathable.” Breathable clothing is made from fabric that’s designed to let air flow through it and keep you cool.
Water-resistant, synthetic materials such as acetate tend to hold in heat as they keep out water. So, opt for clothes made of cotton, linen, or silk.
Just like being in a pool, keep the temperature of your bath or shower much lower than your body temperature to prevent overheating. If in doubt, use a thermometer to check your temperature and the water’s temperature.
There’s no one right way to stay cool. The important thing is to take extra precautions. Turning on a fan when you’re in the shower or bath, keeping a frozen water bottle by your bed, and being mindful of water temperature can prevent you from overheating in the first place.
You can try some of the above strategies depending on the situation and your symptoms. Be sure to talk with your doctor for guidance on how best to treat your particular condition.