MS and Temperature: Adapting Your Daily Life

Lili Marchand
Mar 28
2 min read

Updated: Jun 1

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex condition, with symptoms that vary uniquely for each person. Among the factors influencing these symptoms, temperature plays a key role. Whether it’s the heat of summer or the chill of winter, climate changes can reshape our daily lives. Here’s how temperature impacts people with MS and how to adapt to improve quality of life.

Heat: A Challenge for Some

For many, heat is a real hurdle. High temperatures can worsen symptoms such as:

Extreme fatigue,
Muscle weakness,
Cognitive issues, often called “brain fog.”

This phenomenon, known as the Uhthoff effect, drives many to seek cooler environments. Air conditioning, cold showers, or lightweight clothing become invaluable allies to better cope with summer.

Cold: A Struggle for Others

On the flip side, cold can be a formidable foe. Low temperatures may:

Reduce blood circulation,
Increase muscle spasticity,
Hinder mobility, making walking more difficult.

Personally, I find comfort in warmth, but cold days are a real challenge. It makes me dream of destinations with mild winters, like Lebanon, where my in-laws live. Could a gentler climate be the key to better managing MS? It’s a question many of us ask.

Individual Variability: Tailored Management

MS is unique to each person, and so are reactions to temperature. What relieves one person may worsen symptoms for another. This individual variability highlights the importance of a personalized approach. Listening to your body and identifying specific triggers is crucial for managing the condition day to day.

Finding a Suitable Climate

The idea of moving to a region with a more favorable climate is appealing. A place with mild winters and moderate summers could lessen symptom impact. For me, Lebanon is a tempting option, though current circumstances call for patience. Have you ever considered relocating to better manage your MS?

Listening to Your Body to Adapt

Managing MS requires tuning into your body. Adjusting your environment—whether by changing your living space, planning strategic vacations, or tweaking daily habits—can transform your quality of life. A few tips:

Wear appropriate clothing (light in summer, warm in winter),
Plan activities based on weather forecasts,
Create a comfortable living space with stable temperatures.

In the end, managing MS means personalizing your approach, always seeking ways to thrive despite the challenges.

How Do You Experience Temperature Changes?

Does heat or cold affect your symptoms, whether from MS or another autoimmune disease? Share your experiences in the comments—your story could inspire others on their journey. I can’t wait to hear from you!

⭐ Recommendations

On social media, friends living with autoimmune diseases often recommend tools to better handle temperature changes. Here are two popular ideas:

Portable USB Fan: Compact and convenient, it helps keep cool on hot days. See on Amazon.

Electric Heated Blanket: Popular in winter to ease muscle tension and stay warm, with adjustable settings. See on Amazon.