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How do you regulate your body temperature?

A MyMSTeam Member asked a question 💭
Mathis, TX

I have trouble regulating my temperature. My face tends to get flushed and heated while the rest of my body stays cool. Also, as I have very limited use of my left side, my left arm and leg tend to be colder than the rest of my body. Sometimes I only want to cover my left arm, but whatever I use tends to slide off. At night, I use the air conditioner set very low and even like that I’ll have my right thigh feeling overheated and so I’m trying to uncover just that while keeping my feet and upper… read more

March 14
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MyMSTeam

How can you manage uneven body temperature regulation with MS?

Temperature regulation challenges are common with MS, and many people experience similar issues with different body parts feeling too hot or too cold at the same time. The uneven temperature sensations you're describing, especially with one side being colder Show Full Answer

How can you manage uneven body temperature regulation with MS?

Temperature regulation challenges are common with MS, and many people experience similar issues with different body parts feeling too hot or too cold at the same time. The uneven temperature sensations you're describing, especially with one side being colder, are something others in the MS community navigate too.

Immediate cooling strategies when you feel overheated:

* Drink cold beverages or suck on ice cubes
* Mist yourself with ice water using a spray bottle
* Take a cooling shower or bath (start lukewarm, then gradually lower temperature)
* Apply cold compresses to specific areas like your flushed face or overheated thigh

Layering and clothing solutions:

Think of dressing like an onion with multiple layers you can add or remove as needed. Light, breathable fabrics work best, and avoid anything tight or made with nylon. For your left arm that tends to be colder, consider a lightweight arm sleeve or fingerless glove that might stay in place better than a blanket.

Cooling products for targeted relief:

Cooling wraps, neck bandanas, and wristbands contain gel that can be chilled and provide cooling for hours. These might help with your flushed face while leaving other areas covered. Some people find cooling vests helpful, though they may be more than you need for nighttime temperature management. Climate control at home:

Even having air conditioning in just one room can provide relief. A MyMSTeam member shared success with a portable AC unit they could move to different rooms as needed. Fans positioned strategically can also help cool specific body parts.

Bedding solutions for uneven temperatures:

Consider using separate lightweight blankets or sheets for different body parts rather than one large cover. This way you can cover your feet and left side while leaving your right thigh exposed. A small throw blanket with clips or weights might stay on your left arm better than regular bedding.

Planning and prevention:

Keep cold water by your bedside and consider having a spray bottle with ice water handy for quick relief when your face gets flushed. Some people keep cooling products in the freezer ready to use.

One MyMSTeam member developed a "Goldilocks checklist" - regularly checking if they're too hot, too cold, hungry, or thirsty, and addressing each issue immediately before symptoms worsen. This proactive approach might help you catch temperature imbalances before they become uncomfortable.

You're definitely not alone in experiencing these uneven temperature challenges with MS.

March 14
A MyMSTeam Member

That’s a smart idea!

March 30
A MyMSTeam Member

I stay as cool as I can at all times 😄I go swimming as much as possible.

March 15
A MyMSTeam Member

Oh goodness, what a predicament you've got! Sounds like hypothalamus damage from a lesion or from a head injury or concussion or something else like nerve damage or reduced blood flow within the brain. Keep your room cool as you've been doing, wear moisture wicking clothes, use lighter bedding and gradually warm and move your left arm since the symptoms you mentioned are similar to Raynaud's syndrome. btw, buy one sleeved or sleeveless clothing; hope these tips help.

March 14
A MyMSTeam Member

Hello @A MyMSTeam Member, I totally understand. I have similar issues with different places being too hot or too cold. It’s particularly problematic at night. I now have several fleece throws, different thicknesses, on the floor next to my bed so I can cover/uncover different parts as needed. I think you just have to keep trying until you find things that work for you. It’s something that others do not comprehend and I get some strange looks at times as I cover and uncover myself! There are some good tips to try in the Ai response. Good luck, you are not alone. 💜

March 14

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