Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory disease where myelin sheaths around the axons of the brain and spinal cord are damaged, causing demyelination and scarring as well as a broad spectrum of signs and symptoms. MS is more commonly found in young adult women approximately 75 per 100,000 people. Multiple Sclerosis is highly affected by temperature.
Those who have MS need to be cautions of their environmental temperatures.
Many people with MS experience a temporary worsening of their symptoms when the weather is very hot or humid, they run a fever, sunbathe, get overheated from exercise, or take very hot showers or baths. Some people with MS report temporary blurred vision when they get overheated. These temporary changes can result from even a very slight elevation in core body temperature. A change in temperature by one-quarter to one-half of a degree higher can impair the ability of the demyelinated nerve to conduct electrical impulses. Many years ago a “Hot Bath” test was used to diagnose MS and see if the patients symptoms would be exacerbated.
- You should stay in air-conditioned rooms during times of extreme heat and humidity.
- You should use cold compresses, bandanas or hats for cooling methods.
- It is important to wear lightweight, loose, breathable clothing.
- It is also advised to always have cold water or an icy drink available in hot temperatures.
- Exercise should be done in a cool environment, such as pool of less than 85 degrees.
Some MS patients notice symptoms in very cold weather, usually spasticity. At AgeWell Physical Therapy, MS is a treated diagnosis. We allow for MS patient’s to exercise in a cool controlled climate under the supervision of our professional staff to help control symptoms.
