Although some parts of the U.S. are still seeing snow, hot weather will be upon us before we know it. Time to start preparing for warmer weather is now. Today, I thought I’d talk about a few tips to assist in properly preparing.
Heat affects nerve-muscle communication in MG, so even a small increase in body or environmental temperature can trigger symptoms like increased muscle weakness, double vision, drooping eyelids, trouble speaking or swallowing, difficulty breathing, and overall general fatigue. That’s why we have to be especially careful in hot weather.
To help prevent worsening symptoms due to heat, here are a few tips:
STAY COOL
- Avoid sun and heat during peak heat hours. Try to do outdoor activities before 10:00 AM or after 4:00 PM, if possible.
- Use air conditioning. If not available, consider cooling shelters or shopping centers.
- Use fans when air conditioning won’t keep up or you have a room with poor air circulation. Consider purchasing a battery powered fan with interchangeable battery packs for times when the power goes out, but remember to keep those battery packs charged.
- Cold packs & cooling gear: I’ve not tried these myself, but I’ve heard cooling towels, vests, or neck wraps can be effective in fighting excessive heat.
- Cool showers or baths: A quick cool-down can reverse heat-related symptom worsening.
HYDRATION
- Stay hydrated! Dehydration can compound fatigue. Don’t rely on Thirst as your alarm that you need to drink more water. Try to drink a cup of water about every 15-20 minutes when your exposed to hot temperatures.
- Avoid caffeinated drinks and alcohol. These can dehydrate you and stress your system.
EAT FOR THE HEAT
- Don’t forget to eat! Sometimes during hot weather, we don’t really feel like eating. While it’s okay to eat lighter, not eating at all can cause other problems. Try lighter meals with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Snacking on grapes, watermelon or other fruits kept in the refrigerator is a great way to cool you down, while also hydrating you and assuring you’re getting the proper food intake.
DRESS SMART
- Wear light-colored, breathable fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking gear.
- Use a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses if outdoors.
ENVIRONMENTAL ADJUSTMENTS
- Keep blinds closed on the side of your house or apartment facing the sun. Some suggest closing all shades, but I find this makes your living space feel gloomy. Some natural light is good for you; you just don’t want the heat from the sun pouring in.
- Use fans strategically, but avoid having them blow directly at you as this could cause breathing difficulties.
- Consider a portable air conditioner or dehumidifier if central AC isn’t an option. Fans may help, but remember that fans only move air, they really don’t do much to change the temperature of the air they’re moving.
MEDICAL & LIFESTYLE CONSIDERATIONS
- Pre-cool before activity: Use a cold compress or sit in the air conditioning before doing anything physically taxing.
- Talk to your doctor to see if any of your medications need to be adjusted during hot weather. Some MG medications may be impacted by temperature or dehydration, but TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE MAKING ANY ADJUSTMENTS.
- Listen to your body. Recognize your limits. If you feel symptoms starting to flare up, rest and cool off immediately.
I tend to get impacted by the heat fairly quickly. That’s why I try to take special precautions when I can. Of all the tips I provided, the one I feel is most important is LISTEN TO YOUR BODY. Don’t try to push through the pain or fatigue. It’s letting you know when it’s tired, and trust me, you’ll do yourself a huge favor by listening to it.
Remember, if symptoms worsen or don’t improve after cooling down and resting, especially breathing difficulty, call your doctor or 9-1-1, or go to the ER. MG symptoms can escalate quickly when you’re overheated.
Stay safe! Together we’re #MGStrong!
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