Ask Nurse Amy: Staying cool and confident this summer

Feeling anxious about summer is understandable, especially if you’ve experienced symptoms worsening due to heat in the past. Planning ahead and being prepared can help restore your confidence so you can continue enjoying the warmer months.

Why does hot weather make my MS symptoms and fatigue worse?

Heat sensitivity is common in MS. MS damages the myelin, which is the protective coating around nerves. Even a small rise in body temperature can temporarily make signalling through affected nerves less efficient, and everyday activities may require extra effort.

On top of this, hot nights can disturb sleep, and social activities or changes in routine can also add to fatigue.

This can lead to a temporary worsening of symptoms, including increased fatigue, weakness, balance difficulties, or cognitive symptoms such as ‘brain fog’.

These temporary symptoms are sometimes referred to as a ‘pseudo-relapse’ and do not mean there is new damage or progression of your MS. Symptoms usually improve after you rest and cool down, although this may take longer for some people.

How can I stay active during summer?

• Try exercising during the cooler times of the day, such as in the morning or evening, or in an air-conditioned space.
• Short periods of activity with planned rests may be easier than one long session.
• Pre-cooling with a cool shower, cold drink, cooling cap or vest may also help. Stop and cool down if you start to feel any symptoms emerging.

What should I consider when socialising?

• Look at the location ahead of time. Is there shade? Is there an air-conditioned indoor space? Is there somewhere to sit? Where are the bathrooms? How will I get there and where can I park?
• Decide what you will bring to help keep you cool, such as iced drinks, something to sit on, or portable shade if needed.
• Give yourself permission to arrive late, leave early and/or rest to help conserve energy.

What are the best ways to keep cool?

It’s often easier to stay cool than to cool down once you’ve become overheated.

• Stay indoors during the hottest part of the day.
• Close blinds before your home heats up.
• Wear loose, lightweight, light-coloured clothing, especially when outdoors.
• Carry cold or iced water.
• Seek shade or an air-conditioned location where possible.
• Cooling vests, neck wraps, damp towels, cold packs and cool showers can all be useful.
• During extreme heat, reconsider or adjust plans where needed.
• Mobility equipment, handrails and dark surfaces can become very hot in the sun, so be mindful and keep them shaded where possible.

Sun safety should be a consideration

Using a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen, along with UV-protective clothing, a hat and sunglasses, and seeking shade where possible, can help protect you from harmful UV rays.

Some medications also increase sensitivity to the sun, so check with your pharmacist if you are unsure.

What should I do if my symptoms worsen?

• Stop and rest somewhere cool.
• Loosen or remove unnecessary clothing and use cold water or damp cloths to help you cool down.

After resting and cooling down, if you have any new or persistent symptoms lasting more than 24-48 hours, you should let your medical team know.

If you experience severe symptoms, such as vision loss, fainting, collapse, significant weakness, or you are unable to safely manage at home, you should seek urgent medical review.

Have questions about managing MS in the heat?

Our MS nurses can discuss your individual circumstances, symptoms and concerns, and help you find practical strategies that work for you. Call the free MS Nurse service on 1800 042 138.