Many people who suffer from MS do not do well with hot temperatures. Even small changes in temperature can affect the nervous system and exacerbate MS symptoms. This can result in slower reaction times, fatigue, weakness, and confusion. Therefore, in order to avoid these symptoms, it is important to learn how to keep cool with MS. In turn, you will be able to enjoy yourself without having to deal with any of the negative side effects that a change in temperature can bring.
Most people who talk about staying cool are talking about ways to cope with temperature changes outside. However, people with MS are susceptible to smaller increases in heat, and they know that they need to be worried about more than outside temperatures. Some of the additional places an MS patient may experience increased symptoms are in the kitchen while cooking, under their blankets at night, or even in the bath. In turn, it helps to know some tips for staying cool and managing your MS, so you don’t have to deal with pronounced symptoms.
Control Your Own Climate
One of the best ways that patients with MS can take control of managing their temperature is to take control of the climate in which they are located. Be sure to have access to an air conditioning unit in your home and office. Additionally, if there is central air conditioning in your office, be sure to install a window unit in order to be able to control your own office temperature to suit your needs. Additionally, if this is not feasible, then fans are a great way to augment existing air conditioning to cool off.
While you are on the move, it is also a good idea to have some solutions for staying cool. Be sure you have a good working air conditioning system in your vehicle, and if you have a driver, make sure they know your particular preference for the air temperature. Some vans even come equipped with rear air conditioning controls, which can make this much easier. Some patients even put in cooling fans that they can attach to their wheelchair, in order to cool off. This allows you to stay mobile, while also avoiding the undue stress that you can face if you’re not sure that they outside temperature will be cool enough.
Cool off with a Bath
One of the most soothing and relaxing parts of the day is taking a bath. As an MS patient, this can be an ideal time to allow yourself to cool off and relax, while you get clean as well. In order to do so, you can open a window in your bathroom to let some cool air in, and then prepare your bath water. Adjust the water temperature so that the water is just a bit cooler than your body temperature. This will allow you to remain comfortable, while also giving you with a lower core temperature.
Wear Layered Clothing
One of the best ways to ensure that you are equipped to deal with any type of temperatures that you encounter is to wear layered clothing. This way you can take off just enough layers in order to stay cool and comfortable, without having to suffer with the chills. Additionally, this will allow you to be in more social situations, since you will be able to adapt to the temperature in the room.
Following these MS tips can make staying cool with MS simple. That way you will be able to enjoy yourself in any type of climate. This will keep you cool and help to keep away any of the symptoms that you would face if you were too hot.
Valerie Johnston is a health and fitness writer located in East Texas. With ambitions of one day running a marathon, writing for Healthline.com ensures she keeps up-to-date on all of the latest health and fitness news.
