Living with multiple sclerosis can bring about a number of uncertainties – from navigating symptom and treatment options to dealing with emotional and lifestyle changes. While every journey with MS is unique, one thing is universal: no one should have to face MS alone. This is why the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA) created My MSAA Community.
Continue readingLiving with MS comes with a unique set of challenges. Heat intolerance can cause setbacks that can lead to a lot of discomfort for those experiencing it. Hot weather can exacerbate MS symptoms and lead to potential flare-ups. As the core body temperature increases, one may notice increased fatigue, weakness, changes in vision, tremors, and more. Heat-related changes are usually temporary and could get better as the body cools down.
Below are some strategies to beat the heat and manage symptoms:
Continue readingBy Stacie Prada
More than any other time of year, summer shares my not-so-secret secrets. I’m not as thin, flexible, or strong as I used to be. It’s easier to disguise and ignore in colder weather when clothing is bulkier and outdoor activities are less promising.
This time of year encourages reality checks for how I look, feel, what I’m able to do, and how things that used to be easy now require more effort. While natural aging is challenging, multiple sclerosis adds even more difficulty to living well in later years.
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While summer heat can be exhausting for anyone, individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) often face added challenges due to heat intolerance and fatigue. Heat sensitivity, also known as Uhthoff’s Phenomenon, refers to a temporary worsening of MS symptoms caused by overheating. Fortunately, there are proactive steps we can take to support our health and well-being while still enjoying all that summer has to offer.
For those living with MS, heat intolerance and fatigue can significantly impact daily activities. Something as simple as sitting in a warm car without air conditioning or spending just a few minutes in the sun can quickly drain energy levels. But with a little planning and self-awareness, it’s possible to make the most of summer while staying safe and comfortable.
Continue readingFor many people living with multiple sclerosis (MS), heat is more than just an uncomfortable weather condition. It can worsen symptoms and impact daily life.
Community members on MultipleSclerosis.net share their experiences when it comes to dealing with the heat. Here is what they wish people knew about how heat affects their MS. Read on for their insights.
Continue readingA light, crisp snack that combines creamy yogurt with fresh cucumber for a refreshing summer treat, perfect for hot days, healthy snacking, or party platters. These bites are hydrating, protein-rich, and made from inexpensive, readily available ingredients.
As the temperature continues to rise and the sun continues to shine this summer season, we may find ourselves making lifestyle adjustments to accommodate the heat. Here at the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA), we recognize how crucial it is to manage MS symptoms while still enjoying life, especially during this time of year. Our recent webinar, “Summer Wellness Tips for Life with MS,” was designed to provide helpful summer tips and empowerment for the MS community.
Continue readingBy Samuel Fitch
Before my multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis, I never understood why I always felt so warm—especially compared to others. Looking back, I realize how fortunate I was to work in my family’s restaurant. One unexpected benefit? A built-in cooling station. On particularly hot days, the walk-in freezer or refrigerator offered immediate relief when my body felt overwhelmed by the heat.
Like many of my fellow MS warriors, managing body temperature—especially in the heat—is a constant challenge. For me, warm weather isn’t just uncomfortable; it can completely derail my ability to function the next day. It’s frustrating because, here in Western New York, beautiful sunny days are few and far between. When I miss them, I feel guilty. I want to be outside enjoying them with my family—but sometimes, the risk just isn’t worth it.
So what’s my advice for managing the heat when you live with MS?
Continue readingBy Stacie Prada
Self-advocacy is hard work. We’re likely advocating for ourselves in tiny ways all the time, and we don’t notice when there’s little to no resistance. Frustration grows when we meet opposition and live with pain and unmet needs.
Barriers to self-advocating: Sometimes, I don’t know what I need, I’m unsure of what resources exist that could help, or I’m not being heard by those who could help me. Even if they want to help, they might not know how.
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I’ve realized that learning to ask for what I need is an art form. While this may come naturally to some, others may find it difficult to put into words. Advocating for ourselves takes self-awareness, clarity, and practice — but the good news is that these skills can be learned and strengthened over time.
At our core, humans are wired for connection and belonging. Advocating for ourselves and asking for what we need can feel risky because it carries the fear of being rejected, dismissed, or seen as “too much,” “too needy,” or “difficult.” And yet, we all have an innate need to feel heard, validated, and understood.
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