| Beat the Heat |
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Many people with multiple sclerosis (MS) experience an increase in symptoms with
increases in body temperature. Problems with increases in body temperature are
usually the most noticeable during the summer months, because of the increase
in outdoor temperatures. However, there are other considerations when managing
heat sensitivity. A fever, inappropriate exercise intensity, a warm indoor
environment (i.e., working in a kitchen), warm water can also increased body
temperature and increase MS symptoms.
The increase in MS symptoms is generally seen as a worsening of existing symptoms,
but may include the appearance of new symptoms. The most common symptom associated
with overheating is fatigue, but people may also experience double vision, numbness, weakness or increased cognitive difficulties. It is important to recognize that the increase in symptoms will subside when the body returns to its normal temperature. If symptoms persist, after you have ‘cooled down’, it is important to contact your physician to rule out other causes such as a fever or an exacerbation.
Managing heat requires careful attention to factors that may cause overheating such as:
- If you have an infection, see your physician for proper treatment
- Avoid exercise during the hottest times of the day
- Learn YOUR appropriate exercise mode, intensity and duration
- Plan a rest period following your exercise session
- If you like to exercise in the water, consider an aquatic exercise program
- Consider ‘breaking up’ your exercise into shorter periods of time
- Drink plenty of fluids (particularly cold water) during exercise and during hot times
of the year
- Avoid or at least minimize use of hot tubs or saunas; these will increase body temperature.
If you must, use appropriate caution: don’t use alone and don’t plan activities following use
- Adjust the environmental temperature; use air conditioners, evaporative coolers or fans,
if available
Adjust your body temperature; use cooling vests, cool baths or showers if you are not able
to adjust the environmental temperature.
If you simply cannot avoid or adjust for ‘the heat of the day”, there is some evidence
which indicates that pre-cooling is beneficial in decreasing the effects of
‘overheating’, particularly with exercise. Pre-cooling is accomplished by submersing
oneself in a tub of cool water (the water temperature should be comfortable) and adding
cooler water over time; continue doing this over a period of 20-30 minutes.
Pre-cooling may increase the time it takes for core body temperature to rise.
Submersion of the trunk in the cool water will provide the optimal benefit.
Managing heat requires a person to recognize the effects heat has on their symptoms.
Not everyone has difficulty with heat and some people experience difficulties with
cold temperatures. Each person with MS is unique in their response to heat and
managing the symptoms requires a unique approach. Managing heat requires
patience and modifications, but it can be done. Work closely with your healthcare
team to find ways that you can beat the heat!
Karen Theriot, MD
Brian Hutchinson, PT
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| - reprinted with permision from- The Heuga Center. |
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