It's that time of year again...Rising temperatures

[Sarahsmom46]

Here we go again - a change of seasons.

Today it got up to 85 degrees outside and that, along with the fire we had at work, through my body into a state of confusion and discontent.  Just as I started celebrating the end of a cold and miserable winter, here comes the heat.  

One of the issues I am dealing with is it being too hot in my office. Even when I strip down to the bare minimum, it is still too hot. No fans are allowed either.

Any suggestions about what helps you all deal with the heat both indoors (assuming no A/C) or outdoors?

-Julie

[HVAC]

MSSA will pay for one cooling vest for each MS patient. You can google them and see the details. I made my own using a fishing vest and ice packs which are in sections I got at Wallmart. I also get a baseball cap and a few bandannas wet and freeze them.

Any rise of body temperature can cause MS Symptoms to be worse whether from heat or fever. I am not sure why. Some one may have scientific answer. Cool can also cause problems in some folks. Then the great flucutations can be brutal. At this time of year there can be 40 degrees difference from day to day.

[Sarahsmom46]

Can someone help Dee with her question.  My brain is fried having yet another day of the office being too hot.  

:)Julie

[Dee5112]

Why do people with MS have an intolerance to heat? I have such a hard time with the heat, it make everything worse!!

[twopack]

I'll vacation with you in the Artic circle Julie.  I'd love to love the warmer weather.  When it finally gets here though I can't tolerate anything more than looking out on it from the air-conditioned haven behind my house windows.

Work is unbearable this time of year when they are still pouring heat out the vents.  My walking slows and I can feel my brain melting.  I actually think over-heated thoughts have started to trickle out my ears as I stare blankly at tasks I'm supposed to be doing.

Telework sounds wonderful but I have no discipline these days.  I'm afraid it would become a televacation before I got the front door unlocked.

Think cool.
Mary

[Pfurs]

I had my 6mos follow up. All went well.

I mentioned the cooling vest and my neuro gave me a rx for it.  I have to order online but can submit to insurance.  I also am getting a scarf to wear under my scrubs.  Dr thought it was good idea as I walk quite a bit.  

[Sarahsmom46]

Thanks you guys.

Mary,I intend to pull the ADA card tomorrow if they don't get our temps reduced in the office. I called and explained that everyone is hot, but also that I have a medical condition that gets worse in the heat.  Later anothe lady called facilities and they said that someone already called.  Obviously the aren't taking it seriously.  So, tomorroe I will go in and will have my director call and if they don't get in there I'll go home to telework.

I like your ideas about the cooling vests, but you gotta do what you gotta do as they say.  

Am I the only one here with heat intolerance?  Just curious.  Thought there might be others who have it as a symptom as well.

Thanks again ladies.  Your comments are most appreciated.

Julie

[twopack]

You might need one of those electric cooling vests.  Guess some of it depends on how much you have to move around and how much you are in the public eye for your job.

Would it help to have some sort of frozen pack around your neck?  I have one and it helps except it only lasts about 20-30 minutes and sweats (leaving me moist) as it warms.

For cool liquids I have found it works well to keep partially filled water bottles in the freezer.  They are convenient to pull out and fill with cool water for a long lasting sipper of refreshment.  I've done the same with iced tea and lemonade.  (NO, you did NOT see me using that iced beverage as a cold pack!)

If you are sitting at a desk, try a frozen back rest or put your feet on a chilled surface.

How come no fans allowed?  I have a very small battery operated personal fan at work that does wonders as long as it isn't too humid.  I would think that would be a reasonable accommodation to request under the ADA regulations.

If you find anything else that works be sure to share.  I'm looking forward to seeing a little sun but already mourning the loss of cool temps.

Mary

[rendean]

Julie,
Have you considered a cooling vest with ice packs in it? I have heard others say that they help with the heat.

Sorry you're in a state of discontent. Perhaps some palmiers and few good laughs will help, available most days with only a day's notice.

Ren

[Lulu54]

J- with your heat sensitivity, you need to do whatever you can to stay cool.  The 84 degrees here yesterday forced me to turn on the A/C, and it's only April.  

Can you take one of those neck wraps to work and use it to cool you?  I know drinking lots of cold water is problematic with the runs to the bathroom at work also being a challenge.

I promise we're sending cooler weather your way tomorrow - unfortunately with a bunch of rain, too!

stay cool,
Lulu