It’s common knowledge that MS symptoms get worse in the heat(called Uhthoff’s phenomenon). Even small increases in core body temperature can increase MS symptoms. Some patients think they are having new flares, but in fact, it’s simply that the nervous system doesn’t conduct its messages along the nerve cells as fast in the heat. Old lesions aren’t getting worse, but the symptoms may reappear anew. The coating of the nerves (myelin) which are stripped off the nerves in MS are essential for the conduction of nerve signals from one nerve to the next.
What is less widely known is that many MS patients feel worse in the cold weather as well. Similar to the effect heat has on the conduction of messages along nerve cells, cold temperature can also affect the speed nerve impulses travel along the nerves already damaged by MS. Some experts believe that lesions in the part of the brain that controls temperature (hypothalamus)may also play a role as it is pivotal in controlling core body temperature. Lesions in this region may slow down the processes through which the brain keeps the body warm (such as shivering). Patients with cold sensitivity from MS may experience stiffness, spasms and difficulty walking.
A recent study showed approximately 2/3 of MS patients experience heat sensitivity, 1/3 have both heat and cold sensitivity, and about a tenth report sensitivity only to cold. Fatigue is the most common symptom from both. The temperature variation that cause an issue may be only as high as 70 degrees or only as low as 55 degrees.
The most common symptoms related to extreme temperatures:
• Fatigue• Pain• Muscle spasms• Numbness and tingling (pins-and needles, burning, stabbing)• Difficulty walking• Cognitive changes and depression
Ways to manage cold temperature-related symptoms:
• Keep moving (using your muscles generates heat)• Wear layers of clothes so you can adjust to your needs• Drink warm fluids• Keep an eye on your thermostat
Because there may be such a small window of temperature tolerance for some patients, it is important to find the ideal temperature for your maximal functioning. BeCare MS App can help you quantify you neurologic function and start you on your journey to optimize your quality of life.
