Sweltering heat got you feeling like you’re living inside an oven? You’re not alone. For those of us dealing with MS, summer can feel like an all-out assault. Heat intolerance can make simple activities exhausting and frustrating.
Picture this: It’s a blazing hot day. You’re just trying to get through your daily routine, but the heat has other plans. Your energy levels plummet, your symptoms flare, and all you want is a cool place to hide. Sound familiar? That creeping frustration isn’t just in your head—it’s a real struggle. Feeling like you’re missing out on summer fun while everyone else enjoys the sun is tough.
I know from experience how it feels. It suffered for about 20 years with heat intolerance. Once it started to reach 70° F my body started to shut down. First, my eyes would start to black out, my face would turn bright red, and finally, my legs would give out. It would take hours for my body to recover. It was depressing and miserable!
It’s okay to feel irritated. You might be thinking, “Why does something as simple as temperature have to mess with my life so much?” It’s not fair, and it’s not easy. Acknowledging that frustration is the first step towards finding solutions. Heat intolerance with MS is like battling an invisible, strength-draining enemy. But here’s the good news: you can fight back.
Over the years I learned practical tips to help stay cool and reclaim summer. Ready to learn how to beat the heat and enjoy the sunny days again? Let’s dive in with these 10 cooling tips:
1. Stay indoors during peak heat hours
Staying indoors during peak heat hours can make a world of difference. The midday sun can spike temperatures, which may worsen symptoms. By avoiding the hottest part of the day, you reduce the risk of overheating and fatigue. It helps maintain your energy levels and keeps you comfortable. Plus, it’s a great excuse to catch up on a good book or movie. Being inside, you can control your environment. It’s a simple, effective way to manage heat intolerance and protect your well-being.
2. Use air conditioning or fans
Image by StockSnap from Pixabay
Using air conditioning or fans is a game-changer for managing heat intolerance. If you don’t have air conditioning, use fans. Place a bucket of ice water in front of the fan to help cool the room. This is a trick I learned from my mom when I was a kid growing up in a house with no air conditioning. If you have a basement, stay there! Basements are naturally cooler because the earth helps insulate them from the heat. Carry around a handheld water misting fan or a portable personal neck cooling fan.
3. Wear light, breathable clothing
Wearing light, breathable clothing can make a big difference. Lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen allow your skin to breathe and help keep your body cool. Loose-fitting clothes prevent heat from getting trapped close to your body. Light colors reflect the sun’s rays, unlike dark colors that absorb heat. Choosing the right clothing can help manage your body temperature, keeping you comfortable. It’s a simple yet effective way to stay cool and maintain your energy levels during hot days.
4. Use a personal cooling device
Using a personal cooling device is a lifesaver. These gadgets, like cooling towels and vests, provide instant relief by lowering your body temperature. Simply apply them to areas like your neck or wrists to cool down quickly. They’re portable and easy to use, making them perfect for on-the-go cooling. Embrace these handy tools to stay cool and in control, no matter how hot it gets outside.
5. Take cool showers or baths
Taking cool showers or baths is a refreshing way to beat the heat if you start feeling overheated. It’s always a good way to lower your body temperature if you do get overheated. Cool water quickly lowers your body temperature, relieving fatigue and dizziness. Be careful when climbing in and out of the tub or shower if you’re feeling weak or dizzy. Grab bars can give you more support and confidence so you won’t slip.
6. Drink plenty of water
People with MS tend to not drink enough due to bladder issues. Drinking plenty of water is crucial for managing heat intolerance. Hydration helps regulate your body temperature. It also prevents dehydration, which can worsen symptoms like fatigue and muscle cramps. It’s like giving your body the fuel it needs to stay cool and function properly.
Water keeps your cells hydrated and organs functioning optimally. It also helps flush out toxins. Drink filtered water regularly throughout the day to stay hydrated. It’s a simple yet powerful way to support your body in coping with heat sensitivity.
7. Close blinds or curtains to block out heat
Photo by Curtis Adams at Pexels
Closing blinds or curtains to block out heat is a smart move for managing MS and heat intolerance. Sunlight streaming through windows can quickly heat up your living space. Closing them during peak heat prevents excess heat indoors. This helps maintain a cooler environment indoors and keeps you comfortable. It’s a simple adjustment that can make a big difference.
I have an Echo device along with smart mini blind wands to automatically do this for me. It’s extremely convenient! If I want to open or close them I ask “Alexa” to open/close the blinds.
8. Exercise earlier in the day
It’s important to continue exercising! However, timing is key for managing heat intolerance. Exercising earlier, when it’s cooler, reduces the risk of overheating. Find the best time to exercise so you don’t get overheated. This helps you stay on track with your exercise routine.
9. Eat light, hydrating foods
Eat light, hydrating foods, and choose foods like fresh fruits, salads, and smoothies. Turning on the oven can raise indoor temperatures increasing heat sensitivity. By choosing cool, hydrating foods, you support hydration and maintain energy levels. These foods are rich in vitamins and minerals to help your body heal. It’s a delicious way to stay cool and feel your best during hot weather.
I own a NinjaFoodie which is perfect for summer because it’s like a traditional oven. It allows you to cook meals while keeping your home cooler during hot days. You can use it to bake, air fry, roast, broil, basically anything an oven can do.
10. What to do when overheated
If you do get overheated, it’s important to cool down quickly. Move to a cool, shaded area or indoors with air conditioning. Drink water to hydrate and use cool towels or ice packs on pulse points like your neck and wrists. Rest until you feel better. Cooling down quickly helps prevent symptoms from escalating.
Managing Heat Intolerance
Many with MS and heat intolerance spend too much time outdoors or don’t drink enough water. These habits can worsen symptoms and lead to overheating. Overdoing it can risk the chance of temporary MS symptoms. Instead, stay indoors during peak heat, sip water all day, and take breaks. Fans alone may not be enough on scorching days. If you don’t have air conditioning in your house consider a portable air conditioner. These small changes can make a big difference in keeping you comfortable.
Managing heat intolerance is all about being proactive and mindful. Use air conditioning, wear light clothes, and drink plenty of water. Take cool showers and avoid the sun during peak hours. By staying aware and taking preventive measures, you can manage hot weather better with MS.
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10 Cool Tips for Managing Heat Intolerance
