UHTHOFF´s Symptom
Multiple Sclerosis - Uhthoff`s symptom
A transient temperature-dependent numbness, weakness, or loss of vision. Conduction stops in any nerve if the temperature gets too high. In a damaged nerve, e.g., by demyelinization, this shutdown temperature is lowered, and may approach normal body temperature. Transient neurological dysfunction may then appear with a hot shower, exercise, or fever.
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Physiology of Cooling
How does cooling and lowering body temperature restore function in damaged nerves and improve the symptoms of MS?
In a normal nerve with healthy myelin insulation, the electrical signal jumps easily from node to node. The myelin insulation keeps the signal from shorting out as it travels to its destination.
In nerves damaged by MS, current escapes through the damaged myelin insulation and cannot reach the next node efficiently. The nerve signal slows ore stops completely. Small increases in body temperature can block current flow even further.
If a damaged nerve is cooled slightly, the speed of the electrical signal is slowed down and the duration of the signal is lengthened. This effect can allow the signal to jump over the damaged area. If this jump is successful current flow can be restored in this nerve.
The encouraging result is that with even small decreases in temperature, the electrical current flow can often be restored producing dramatic improvements in vision, fatigue, spasticity, cognitive function, and other typical symptoms of MS
Some Facts:
• About 70% of patients with MS are heat sensitive.
• Small increases in body temperature can slow nerve signals significantly. Existing symptoms often get worse with heat and new symptoms can emerge.
THE GOOD NEWS:
• This is a temporary deterioration which improves when the body temperature returns to normal.
• When the body temperature is reduced slightly below normal (only 1 or 2 degrees F), noticeable improvements in symptoms can occur.
• Small increases in body temperature can slow nerve signals significantly. Existing symptoms often get worse with heat and new symptoms can emerge.
THE GOOD NEWS:
• This is a temporary deterioration which improves when the body temperature returns to normal.
• When the body temperature is reduced slightly below normal (only 1 or 2 degrees F), noticeable improvements in symptoms can occur.
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