Uhthoff’s phenomenon

[mikemolly]

Is there a reason for Uhthoff’s phenomenon other than MS?

Thanks!
Bethany

[maydas2002]

Hi. I have researched this before and most places say it is a phenomenon that occurs in demylienating diseases such as MS, been this one the most common. I have read that is mostly associated with optic neuritis so i guess that the disseases that have optic neuritis as ine of the symptoms are included. The following is one of the definitions I have found.

Definition:

Uhthoff’s phenomenon, a symptom characteristic of demyelinating disorders such as multiple sclerosis.in which a person’s vision becomes blurred when the body gets overheated from hot weather, exercise, fever or saunas and hot tubs. It is thought to be a residual symptom of optic neuritis, even if the person was unaware that they ever had optic neuritis.

This is an example of a pseudoexacerbation, rather than a relapse, because vision returns to normal after body temperature returns to normal. No permanent damage is done.

The term also is occasionally used to refer to temporary worsening of other MS symptoms due to heat, such as numbness, tingling or weakness.

Hope this helps,

mayda

[mikemolly]

Thank you!

I've been going down "Denial Road" this week, trying to explain away my symptoms. This one seems hard to blame on something else.

I'm still waiting dx. On Tuesday, I had VEP and SSEP tests but won't find out the results for a few weeks. When my C+T spine MRI's are taken next week and reviewed, they will call me with a date to talk about the findings.

Take care,
Bethany

[maydas2002]

Make sure you tell your Dr. about it. i am not a doctor, but I have been looking for this too in the past. I hope everything turns out to be good in you neuro visit. take care.
Mayda