The majority of MS patients complain that extremely warm temperatures exacerbate symptoms. Most feel a greater degree of comfort when outdoor temperatures do not exceed 70 degrees Fahrenheit. However, cold temperatures may also make a difference. When temperatures begin falling below 55 degrees Fahrenheit, MS symptoms may become worse.

Cold Weather Symptoms

Cold weather does not affect all individuals diagnosed with MS. For those who have noticed a difference, the level of intolerance and the physical manifestations vary from person to person. The cold may increase physical fatigue or cause a general loss of strength. Patients may complain that they experience difficulty staying warm or continually feel chilled. Arms and legs may feel stiff, a symptom that some describe as feeling like their limbs are made out of wood.

Muscle spasms and spasticity may increase along with painful neuropathy. Individuals having lesions on the length of the spine located in the torso region may experience an uncomfortable and sometimes unbearable sensation known as the “MS hug.” Lesions in this area cause muscle spasms that mimic forceful compression. Patients may develop variations in skin sensations that include burning, tingling or numbness. Some have problems with bladder and bowel control during the winter that they do not normally suffer with during warmer months.

Possible Reasons for the Symptomatic Increase

Unlike the documented research on the effects of warm weather on MS patients, scientists have not thoroughly studied how and why cold temperatures seem to bother some MS sufferers. Speculation exists that because the days are shorter during the winter months, patients usually have less opportunity for sun exposure, which can lead to lack of Vitamin D. Some researchers believe that depression may be the underlying cause for an increase in or the development of symptoms.

Studies indicate that vitamin D levels play a role in the development, progression or relapse of the disease. The body requires the fat soluble vitamin for many reasons that include nerve transmission. Theories have risen that there may be a correlation between low levels of sun exposure during winter months, a subsequent drop in vitamin D levels and an increase in MS symptoms. Upon the recommendation of a physician, patients might require a blood test, which may reveal the need to supplement a diet with sufficient levels of vitamin D.

Additional Helpful Hints

Along with adjusting the thermostat while indoors or in a vehicle, layered clothing, hot water bottles or heating pads all help increase thermal regulation. However, getting too warm may actually be detrimental by causing heat related symptoms. While some resort to hot baths or showers in attempts at feeling warmer, these practices can also lead to overheating. When having that chilled to the bone experience, one can easily increase body core temperature, or get warm from the inside out, by consuming warm or hot beverages. Physicians also caution that staying indoors during the frigid months unless absolutely necessary also helps prevent the possibility of becoming chilled.

For additional advice and tips on effectively managing symptoms of multiple sclerosis, refer to the MS – Living Symptom Free book!