How does excessive heat affect patients with multiple sclerosis?

Excessive heat negatively impacts patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) by causing exacerbation of symptoms. This phenomenon, often referred to as Uhthoff's phenomenon, occurs because increased temperatures can exacerbate the underlying condition. In patients with MS, nerve conduction may already be compromised due to demyelination, and heat can further slow the conduction of impulses along the damaged nerves. As a result, many individuals with MS may experience symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, visual disturbances, and other neurological challenges when exposed to high temperatures. Understanding this relationship highlights the importance of managing environmental temperature and the need for patients to keep cool in order to mitigate potential flare-ups of their condition.