How to Beat the Heat

Great tips for beating the heat came through on Tweeter this past week, from our friends at the Pacific Coast Chapter of the MS Society. And, they reminded us “…heat generally produces only temporarily worsening of symptoms and does not cause more disease activity or damage to nerves”. The tweets below are great reminders on how to stay cool. Thanks for sending these out mspsc and stay cool everyone!

Top 7 Tips to Beat the Heat:

• Beat the Heat Tip #1: Drink plenty of fluids. Water is the fluid of choice. Avoid caffeine as this acts as a diuretic.

• Beat the Heat Tip #2: There are a number of cooling products including vests, neck wraps and bandanas available for purchase.

• Beat the Heat Tip #3: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting and breathe-able clothing. Wearing light colors can also help.

• Beat the Heat Tip #4: Make sure to do your outdoor activities during the cooler times of the day, usually early morning or evening. 

• Beat the Heat Tip #5: Try an aquatics class. Check out some options in your neighborhood. 

• Beat the Heat Tip #6: Don’t want to spend the money on a cooling product? Try a wet towel stored in the refrigerator or cooler.

• Beat the Heat Tip #7: Try pre-cooling. Soak in a tub of cool water for 20-30 minutes before heading outside.

(slapping forehead) I suppose drinking gallons of coffee and wearing flannel yesterday was not a good plan.

P.S. most electric companies offer discount programs for MSers. After all, AC is a blessing during these fiery months! I just downloaded an application from SDG&E’s website: sdge medbaseline program.

P.P.S. Did you know? The cost of an air conditioner is tax-deductible with a document from your physician. Thanks for letting us know mspsc. I did not know this and gaining this knowledge right now was perfect timing – we need a new AC!