Winter

Much of what you hear about seasonal impacts in MS will talk about heat intolerance and how to stay cool during the summer months.  But cold weather can also exacerbate MS related issues.

I experience episodes of increased muscle tone which some neurologists call spasticity.  Another school of thought excludes this symptom based on findings during a standard neurological exam.  A neurologist will attempt to invoke a response from large muscles with rapid movement of a limb (usually the legs).  When a muscle response is noted, spasticity is diagnosed.  But a few notable physicians do include increased muscle tone and stiffness as indicative of spasticity.

When the weather turns cold, it's normal to tense up a bit in an effort to brace against the cooler temperatures and stay warm.  It is during the winter months that I find myself really needing to keep up with my stretching routine and sometimes add an extra session into my day.  Stiffness can become uncomfortable and painful at times.  

A warm shower, resting with a heating pad and gentle movement also help relieve the discomfort I experience.

Cold doesn't help matters.  The body's response to cold, withdrawal of blood from the extremities, shivering; all contribute to tightening of muscles.  When muscles are tight and stiff it takes a lot more energy to do simple tasks which results in fatigue.  

Understanding how all these elements play out in my body has been very helpful.  With any chronic condition, it's important to learn as much as you can about what triggers your symptoms.  Having a toolkit of strategies to work with is empowering and effective self-care can make a huge difference in your day-to-day.

Keeping My Eyes Open

 Every now and then I struggle to keep my eyes open.  MS fatigue (lassitude) is unlike normal fatigue.  It's a weariness that makes it challenging to manage daily self-care.  All that matters is that you're able to lie down, somewhere.  When I have days like this, it starts first thing in the morning, even after a decent night's sleep.  I eat breakfast, and despite having a couple of cups of coffee, my body says, "Take a nap, why don't you?"

Full disclosure:  I recently got a new puppy.  Leo.  A yellow coated, chihuahua-terrier mix.  Energy personified, but packaged in a size that accommodates rapid sprints up and down the hallway.  Whoever invented the tennis ball has another tiny canine devotee who deeply appreciates his ball.  

So, needless to say, I am getting more exercise lately.  Fortunately, Leo isn't one to cry through the night.  He tucks in at about my same bedtime and we meet up again in the morning.  He also has taken quite well to a Porch Potty.  I don't have a proper backyard, so it's awesome that he uses this.  He's already signaling his need to go out by running to the back door.  I don't sit down for long these days, but the puppy phase will eventually end. But here are my stats for our first week together:

2386 calories

27,653 steps

12.62 miles

69 flights climbed

To be fair I should also mention the cat.  She's a senior with health issues that have to be tended to.  My master bedroom has become a feline hospice, and the bathroom now houses a litter box, water fountain and food.  

So.... when I found myself with a bit of quiet time to put my feet up and read a little this morning, my eyelids would not cooperate.

I've had to learn to give myself permission to rest and give up the to-do list.