This Is MS Multiple Sclerosis Community: Knowledge & Support

Heat didn't really bother me much until the last few months. I actually went to DisneyWorld during the fourth of July last year with near 100 degree heat and was no more miserable than everybody else. but now it totally drains me. I wasn't really experiencing muscle weakness last summer but now that I am it is horrible.

I have had spasticity and sensory problems mostly in the past and heat actually made me feel better....but now with the weakness it makes it much worse. I had frequently used the heated seats in my van...it made the tightness in my back better and relieved the "submerged in ice water" sensory problems I had. But now...with the heat directly on my spine within minutes my leg that is weak worsens dramatically.

So I guess I am an example of 2 thoughts above...the longer you have it and the more progression the more likely you are to be heat sensitive..and...the heat directly to the spine area is bad news.

Wendy

Wendy-- welcome to the site

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HI Wendy! Here's something I noticed about the heat issue just in casual conversation : People who use heating pads or electric blankets seem to have progressed more (Hey n=4.... this just an observation of friends) or simply are more progressed. Sometimes I can't sleep for the cold in my legs and feet and these folks talk about the same symptom. A heating pad for a little bit is a great relief. I'm fairly progressed myself at 5.5 or so EDSS.
Anyone else?
Marie

I use a small microwaveable heating pack called a Bed Buddy for my neck when I get bad muscle cramps. These also work great for cold feet and you don't have to worry about any fire hazards or leaving them on too long since they're not plugged in. They only need to be microwaved for 1.5-2 minutes to get them hot depending on the power of your microwave.

NHE

Great I'll get one. Thanks!
marie

NHE--your book recommendations have been terrific! So, based on your recommendation, I got a Bed Buddy today. I had to do something about my icy feet and legs (from the knees down!) at bedtime! A safer solution than the heating pad. Thanks.

Niko, Heat AND Humidity definitely effects me more too.

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Karen (OneEyeBlind)

* I don't suffer from insanity, I enjoy it!