Heat and cold sensitivity
Many people with multiple sclerosis experience a temporary worsening of their symptoms when the weather is very hot or humid or they run a fever, sunbathe, get overheated from exercise, or take very hot showers or baths. For example, some people notice that their vision becomes blurred when they get overheated - a phenomenon known as Uhthoff's sign.
These temporary changes can result from even a very slight elevation in core body temperature (one-quarter to one-half of a degree) because an elevated temperature further impairs the ability of a demyelinated nerve to conduct electrical impulses.
Learn more: publications
Learn more: Podcast series, Not Alone.
Learn more: Get Your ACT Together online tool
To hear more symptom management strategies try the Get Your ACT Together online tool which provides you with a personalised symptom management report.
Learn more: Coping with the heat webinar
This recording will provide practical strategies to manage heat intolerance. (Recorded March 2018)
Webinar Handouts :
Coping with the heat 
Find out about upcoming programs. For more information or to register please email education@ms.org.au or call MS Connect™ (Freecall 1800 042 138).
Seeing MS - Hot and cold
Photographed by Jamie MacFadyen
Inspired by Dimitri Cachia's invisible symptom
A single bead of sweat can bring me to my knees.
- DIMITRI CACHIA -
Hot and cold
Damage to the nervous system can dramatically alter your body temperature from burning hot to freezing cold.
Jamie MacFayden
Jamie MacFadyen is a renowned Australian photographer. He has collaborated with top creative agencies across the country producing work that has gone onto win international awards.
About Dimitri
Dimitri Cachia is passionate about educating others through his own experiences living with MS. Dramatic changes in body temperature can leave him feeling suffocated, and can often perpetuate his other symptoms.