Written by: Lucie Petrelis, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Summer is a time of joy and relaxation for many, but the elevated temperatures can bring unique challenges for individuals living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). MS is a chronic neurological condition that affects the central nervous system, resulting in various physical symptoms such as fatigue, muscle weakness, coordination difficulties, and sensory and cognitive symptoms. These challenges can be intensified by high temperatures, making it crucial for people with MS to take extra precautions during the summer months. In this article, we will talk about MS and heat sensitivity, as well as essential tips and strategies to minimize discomfort and stay cool, comfortable, and safe during the year's hottest season.
1. Theory of MS and heat sensitivity
a. Understanding heat sensitivity in MS
Heat sensitivity, also known as Uhthoff's phenomenon, is a common symptom experienced by many MS patients. Approximately 60-80% of MS patients experience a temporary worsening of neurological symptoms due to changes in body temperature triggered by warm environmental conditions, hot baths, exercise, or exposure to hot and cold temperatures. These temperature-sensitive episodes, often referred to as pseudo-exacerbations or pseudo-relapses, are distinct from the progression of the disease and typically resolve once core body temperature returns to regular values. However, they can significantly impact physical activity levels, work productivity, and overall quality of life. The most common symptoms experienced due to heat are fatigue, brain fog, weakness, and poor walking. Many individuals with MS even face early retirement due to heat intolerance and fatigue.
b. The mechanisms behind heat sensitivity
Heat sensitivity in MS involves the temporary slowing or blocking of neural conduction within the central nervous system (CNS) nerve fibers due to changes in core temperature, influenced by the degree of demyelination. Demyelination, which is a key feature of MS pathology, refers to the loss of the protective myelin cord around nerve fibers, leading to conduction slowing and blockage.
c. Effects on sensory and cognitive symptoms
While much research has focused on the impact of heat sensitivity and symptoms connected to mobility, limited attention has been given to sensory and cognitive symptoms. However, studies have shown that heat sensitivity can worsen cognitive deficits in attention, concentration, information processing, and sensory deficits such as altered sensations and body pain.
2. Strategies to manage heat sensitivity when living with MS
a. Practical tips
Individuals with MS can adopt various strategies to manage heat sensitivity and stay comfortable during the summer while enjoying their life:
Minimize the time spent outdoors in extreme heat. Instead, stay indoors where it's air-conditioned or use fans to keep cool.
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and prevent overheating.
Wear loose, light-colored clothes from breathable fabric to feel more comfortable in the heat.
Schedule outdoor activities during the cooler parts of the day, like early mornings or evenings.
Engage in low-intensity exercises in cool places.
Take a dip in the pool, sea, lake, or have refreshing showers to cool down.
Opt for cold foods like salads, fruits, and smoothies.
b. Slow down
The wisest strategy of all is to significantly take it easy and be at peace with the reality that during warmer days, many activities, tasks, and chores must be limited, slowed down or even postponed for another day or week. Increased symptoms due to heat sensitivity are very real and common for most MS patients (including myself) and should be considered. Health and well-being must come first and become the absolute priority. All the rest should come second or get delegated.
c. Communicate your needs
Communication with others is also crucial. During hot days is the right moment to openly talk about those extra needs and challenges, and ask for support, especially regarding physical tasks.
d. Take your mental health seriously
Emotional support should also be vividly present during those warm days as dealing with the reality of the heat on MS symptoms require some specialized attention and focus. Mental health struggles should not be ignored or taken lightly, as those particular days are even more challenging than usual. That is why talking to someone and asking for help could make a big difference.
e. Your comfort is worth a trip
During warmer days, if you have the opportunity to take some time off and travel keep in mind the option of going to a less warm location to escape the heat. This way you can do something exciting by visiting a new place without the negative impact of the heat. In the case of Europe, going to the Nordic Scandinavian countries in the summer is a wonderful option.
f. Can´t take no for an answer
If you do wish or need to be active during warm days, I have put in place a must-read guide with my most precious tips: Practical tips to combat MS and heat while enjoying your summer.
Conclusion
Heat sensitivity poses unique challenges for individuals with MS during the summer months. Understanding the mechanisms behind temperature sensitivity and its effects on physical, sensory, and cognitive symptoms is crucial for developing effective strategies to minimize the negative impact of heat and enjoy life. By adopting appropriate coping strategies and lifestyle adjustments, people with MS can enhance their summer experience by staying cool, comfortable, and safe. With the right tips, mindset and support, individuals with MS can take great care of their health while enjoying a fulfilling summer.
Do you need support to find the right strategies and mindset to make the best out of your days and life while living with Multiple Sclerosis? I am a life coach specialized in MS and I can support you, all seasons long!
Resources used for the theoretical part of this article:
Temperature sensitivity in multiple sclerosis: An overview of its impact on sensory and cognitive symptoms. 2018, Authors: Aikaterini Christogianni, Richard Bibb, Scott L Davis, Ollie Jay, Michael Barnett, Nikos Evangelou, and Davide Filingeria.
Heat and cold sensitivity in multiple sclerosis: A patient-centred perspective on triggers, symptoms, and thermal resilience practices. 2022, Aikaterini Christogianni, Jasmine O´Garro, Richard Bibb, Ashleigh Filtness, Davide Filingeri.
Lucie Petrelis, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Lucie Petrelis is a certified life coach supporting individuals with ADHD and MS to redesign their life in a way that makes sense to them, and that is based on their needs. At 22, she temporarily lost her ability to walk and was suddenly diagnosed with MS, forcing her to rethink her life’s perspective and priorities. Twenty years later, her diagnosis of ADHD gave her the gift of finally understanding the root of so many of her challenges. Using the power of her stamina, positivity, and proven methodologies, she inspires and drives others to take their life into their own hands, re-structure it, re-prioritize it, add a lot of joy in it, and above all be proud of who they are. Her motto: Your challenges are valid.
