Many people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) find that heat can cause an increase in their symptoms.

This might involve a build-up of fatigue, blurred vision, loss of balance or a worsening of cognitive symptoms, such as concentration or memory. The symptoms generally improve when body temperature returns to normal.

Some of the things you can do to stay cool and ease the symptoms are;

• Take cool baths or showers.
• Drink plenty of cool water. Try to avoid drinking alcoholic or caffeinated drinks as these can make you more dehydrated. 
• Eat cold foods, particularly salads and fruit with high water content.
• Keep cool indoors and keep the windows closed while the room is cooler than it is outside. Open windows at night when the air is cooler.
• Wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen.
• Stay out of the heat in the hottest part of the day, usually between 11am and 3pm.
• Avoid excessive physical activity.

Your MS specialist nurse or doctor can give you reliable information about MS symptoms and treatments.

For more information and advice, visit NHS Choices at www.nhs.uk/summerhealth, or ring NHS 111.