It is forty degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) at the moment in my hometown in South
Africa. It feels like hell. My world comes to a halt in high temperatures. I have to make a
deliberate effort to try and stay as cool as possible. Heat can have a significant effect on people with multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is an autoimmune disorder that affects the central nervous system, and it can cause a wide range of symptoms, including fatigue, muscle weakness, and difficulty with coordination and balance. Heat can worsen these symptoms, making it difficult for people with MS to function normally.
According to a scientific article published in the Journal of Applied Physiology, called,
“Thermoregulation in Multiple Sclerosis”, an estimated 60-80% of MS patients experience
temporary worsening of clinical signs and neurological symptoms with heat exposure.
Additionally, MS may produce impaired neural control of autonomic and endocrine functions.
Heat can cause an increase in inflammation, which can lead to an exacerbation of MS
symptoms. This is because inflammation can cause the immune system to become
overactive, leading to an increase in the production of inflammatory molecules. These
molecules can then cause damage to the myelin sheath, which is the protective coating
around nerve cells. This damage can lead to a decrease in nerve conduction, resulting in a
worsening of MS symptoms.
Heat can also cause an increase in fatigue, which can make it difficult for people with MS to
complete everyday tasks. Small tasks are exhausting. This is because heat can cause the
body to become dehydrated, leading to an increase in fatigue. Additionally, heat can cause
an increase in muscle spasms, which can make it difficult for people with MS to move
around.
Finally, heat can cause an increase in pain, which can make it difficult for people with MS to
manage their symptoms. This is because heat can cause an increase in nerve sensitivity,
leading to an increase in pain. Additionally, heat can cause an increase in muscle stiffness,
which can make it difficult for people with MS to move around. For me the pain in my upper
back is excruciating in hot weather.
Overall, heat can have a significant effect on people with MS. It can cause an increase in
inflammation, fatigue, muscle spasms, and pain, making it difficult for people with MS to
function normally. Therefore, it is important for people with MS to take steps to avoid heat
exposure, such as staying in air-conditioned environments and avoiding strenuous activities
in hot weather. Additionally, it is important for people with MS to stay hydrated and take
breaks when necessary to help manage their symptoms.
Most important MS patients have to learn to say no to events that are out in the open in hot
weather and avoid places without air-conditioning if possible. From my experience living
with secondary progressive MS, I have realised that the onus is on me to take responsibility
for keeping my body temperature down at all costs because MS pain and disability in hot
weather is unbelievably debilitating. Hats off to all our care givers and family who play a
crucial role in helping MS patients to preserve function and decrease the possibility of our symptoms worsening
during heat stress.