2007 August - The Uthoff Phenomenon

At the moment I have trouble bearing the heat, so my legs are heavy, the fatigue is worsened, numbness in several bodyparts like the right hand and the chin/lip area, as well as visual problems occur to me recently. They vary each day.
This I just repost to remind my fellow MSers that you're NOT going insane, it's the MS, you hear me?

The Uthoff Phenomenon

A build up of heat causes a worsening of nerve conduction. Overheated people generally find that they are more tired and sluggish. This effect is amplified when there is an underlying problem such as MS that causes damage to the nerves. As a result, many people with MS find that heat can cause symptoms to worsen. This might involve a build up of fatigue, blurred vision or a loss of balance.

Although unpleasant, the effects of heat are temporary and do not cause any permanent damage to nerves. The symptoms are generally quickly reversed when body temperature returns to normal.

Many people who are sensitive to heat find that cooling techniques can reduce problems. This can involve cooling whilst doing activities, using a mister spray or cooling gel in wristbands or scarves. Alternatively, some people find cooling down before activity, by having a cold bath or shower or by using a cooling suit, gives them more energy or stamina.

Whilst a reaction to increased heat is more common, some people with MS find that a decrease in temperature also causes a worsening of symptoms.