For individuals living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), the changing of seasons is more than just a shift in temperature—it can significantly impact symptoms and quality of life. Both extreme heat and cold can trigger symptom flare-ups and worsen existing conditions. By understanding the effects of seasonal changes and preparing in advance, MS patients can better manage their symptoms throughout the year.
How Weather Affects MS Symptoms
Heat Sensitivity (Uhthoff's Phenomenon)
Heat sensitivity is a common challenge for people with MS, with 60% to 80% of patients reporting worsened symptoms in warmer temperatures . This phenomenon, known as Uhthoff's phenomenon, occurs when a slight increase in body temperature—due to hot weather, exercise, or even a fever—worsens MS symptoms like fatigue, motor weakness, or blurred vision. While the effects are usually temporary, they can significantly impact daily life.
What happens?
In hot conditions, the body’s cooling mechanisms are overwhelmed, leading to impaired nerve conduction in already damaged areas of the central nervous system (CNS).
This worsens symptoms like muscle weakness, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties.
Learn more about Heat Sensitivity here.
Cold Sensitivity
While heat sensitivity is more commonly discussed, cold temperatures can also worsen MS symptoms. Cold weather can increase spasticity (muscle stiffness), make mobility more challenging, and cause pain in the joints. The colder months are particularly difficult for many MS patients, as the drop in temperature can slow down nerve conduction, leading to worsened muscle stiffness and reduced flexibility .
What happens?
Cold temperatures can tighten muscles, leading to more frequent or severe spasms.
The body’s response to the cold can slow movement and cause discomfort, making physical activity more difficult.
Learn more about Cold Sensitive here.
The Impact of Humidity and Barometric Pressure
Changes in humidity and barometric pressure can also influence MS symptoms. While research in this area is ongoing, many patients report feeling fatigued or experiencing heightened symptoms during periods of high humidity . Rapid changes in barometric pressure, such as before a storm, have been linked to headaches, dizziness, and increased physical discomfort in some MS patients .
High Humidity: Can exacerbate feelings of fatigue and make managing MS-related heat sensitivity more difficult.
Barometric Pressure: Sudden changes in atmospheric pressure can trigger headaches or worsen existing symptoms in some individuals.
How to Manage MS During Seasonal Changes
Managing MS in Hot Weather
Stay Cool: Wear lightweight, breathable clothing and use cooling aids like vests, fans, or cooling towels to help lower body temperature.
Hydrate Regularly: Drinking water throughout the day is essential for regulating body temperature and preventing fatigue.
Plan Your Activities: Limit outdoor activities to cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening, to avoid overheating.
Managing MS in Cold Weather
Layer Your Clothing: Wear multiple layers of warm clothing to prevent cold-triggered stiffness and spasticity. Make sure the clothing is easy to remove if you start to overheat indoors.
Exercise Indoors: Indoor exercises, such as yoga or gentle stretching, help maintain flexibility without the risk of exposure to cold temperatures.
Consider Warm Water Therapy: Warm baths or hydrotherapy can help relax stiff muscles, though the water should not be too hot to avoid triggering heat sensitivity.
Planning for Humidity and Pressure Changes
Monitor Weather Conditions: Track the weather forecast, especially during seasons of rapid weather shifts or storms, so you can prepare for potential symptom fluctuations.
Stay Indoors When Necessary: On particularly humid or stormy days, consider staying indoors where you can control the temperature and environment more easily.
Stay Hydrated: High humidity can make you feel fatigued, so drinking plenty of water is crucial.
Why It’s Important to Be Prepared
Preparing for seasonal changes isn’t just about comfort—it can also prevent symptom flare-ups and reduce the risk of physical and emotional stress. By adjusting your daily routines and being proactive, you can minimize the impact of weather on your MS symptoms.
Practical Steps for Each Season:
Summer: Use cooling products, avoid the sun during peak hours, and stay hydrated.
Winter: Wear thermal clothing, stretch indoors, and consider using a humidifier to maintain moisture in dry environments.
Humid Conditions: Stay in air-conditioned spaces, drink water, and avoid strenuous activities.
Conclusion
Weather changes are an unavoidable part of life, but with a bit of planning and self-awareness, people living with MS can better manage the effects of seasonal shifts. Whether it’s protecting yourself from the heat or layering up in cold weather, taking these simple steps can help improve your quality of life throughout the year. 🌤️
By incorporating these strategies into your routine, you can be prepared for the effects of seasonal changes and take control of your symptoms year-round.
References:
National Multiple Sclerosis Society. “Living Well with MS.”
Cleveland Clinic. “Heat Sensitivity and MS.”
MS Society UK. “Cold Weather and MS: How to Cope.”
Multiple Sclerosis Journal. "Seasonal Variations in MS Symptoms."
National Institutes of Health. "The Impact of Weather on MS Symptoms."
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I’ve struggled with cold sensitivity more than heat, especially with stiff muscles in the winter. I usually do light stretching, but the idea of warm water therapy sounds great—definitely going to try that this season.
Heat sensitivity has always been my biggest challenge—summer just drains my energy. I’ve started using cooling vests and planning my day around avoiding the heat, which helps. I didn’t know about how barometric pressure affects MS either, but it totally makes sense now that I think about it. Thanks for these useful tips!