Stay Frosty: Tips for Staying Cool with MG

When the temperature rises, it's more important than ever to stay cool. 🌡️ Since heat and Myasthenia Gravis (MG) don't get along, here are my favorite ways to beat the heat! 😎

1. Stay Inside!

This might sound obvious, but it is truly the best way to keep cool during the scorching summer days. If you do have to go out, try to avoid the hottest times of the day, typically between 10 AM and 4 PM. The best times to venture outside are in the early morning or after sunset when the temperatures are more bearable.

2. Embrace the Gadgets

There are some fantastic cooling gadgets on the market that can be real lifesavers: cooling collars, ice vests, misting fans, and cooling towels, to name a few. These tools can make a significant difference in keeping your body temperature down on those blistering hot days. Don't hesitate to invest in a few of these gadgets to help you stay comfortable.

3. Love the Shade

While the air temperature may be the same in the shade as in the sun, being in the shade can help you avoid solar radiation, which effectively adds 10-15°F to the perceived heat. So, always seek out shaded areas to reduce direct sun exposure. This small adjustment can significantly help you stay cooler and more comfortable.

4. Cover Your Skin

Protecting your skin from the sun is crucial, especially if you're on medications like Imuran, which can increase your sensitivity to sunlight. Wearing loose, breathable, and lightweight fabrics can help protect your skin while keeping you cool. Long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-protective clothing are excellent choices to shield yourself from harmful solar radiation.

5. Keep Your Car Cool

A car parked outside in the sun can turn into an oven, with cabin temperatures soaring up to 120°F or higher! To avoid this, try to park in a garage, carport, or shaded area whenever possible. Using a reflective sunscreen in your windshield can also help keep your car cooler. If your vehicle has a remote start option, use it to start the air conditioning a few minutes before you get in, ensuring a cooler ride from the start.

6. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Staying well-hydrated is key to managing your body temperature. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps your body function optimally and keeps you cool. Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, as they can dehydrate you. Consider carrying a reusable water bottle with you to ensure you have access to cool water wherever you go.

7. Use Fans Strategically

Ceiling fans, box fans, and handheld fans can make a big difference in keeping you cool. Use them in combination with air conditioning to circulate cool air more effectively. If you don’t have air conditioning, placing a bowl of ice in front of a fan can create a cooling breeze. Fans are a simple and effective way to stay cool indoors.

8. Take Cool Showers or Baths

Taking a cool shower or bath can help lower your body temperature quickly. This can be especially helpful if you start to feel overheated. Additionally, using a damp, cool washcloth on your forehead, neck, and wrists can provide immediate relief from the heat.

9. Eat Light Meals

Heavy meals can increase your body temperature and make you feel sluggish. Opt for lighter, cooler foods such as salads, fruits, and vegetables. These foods have higher water content, which can help keep you hydrated and cool. Avoid hot, spicy foods as they can increase your internal body temperature.

10. Create a Cool Environment

Make your living space a haven from the heat. Keep curtains and blinds closed during the hottest part of the day to block out the sun. Use light-colored or reflective window coverings to reduce heat absorption. Consider using a dehumidifier if you live in a humid area, as lower humidity levels can make the air feel cooler.

11. Plan Activities Wisely

Plan your daily activities to avoid the peak heat hours. If you need to run errands, try to do so in the early morning or late evening. When exercising, opt for indoor, air-conditioned spaces or do gentle activities like yoga or stretching at home. Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day to prevent overheating.

12. Stay Informed

Keep an eye on the weather forecast and be prepared for heat waves. Knowing when to expect extremely high temperatures allows you to plan accordingly and take extra precautions. Apps and websites can provide real-time updates and alerts for heat advisories in your area.

Staying cool during the summer is essential, especially when managing Myasthenia Gravis. By following these tips, you can help prevent heat-related complications and stay comfortable even on the hottest days.

Stay cool out there! 😎

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Dr. Liz Plowman, PT, DPT, is an MG-specialized Physiotherapist and the owner of MG Physio, a telehealth Physiotherapy practice exclusively for those living with Myasthenia Gravis (MG).