Uhthoff's phenomenon
Uhthoff's phenomenon is a symptom that is commonly associated with multiple sclerosis (MS). It is characterized by a temporary worsening of MS symptoms due to an increase in body temperature. This can be caused by exercise, hot weather, or a fever. The phenomenon is named after Wilhelm Uhthoff, a German ophthalmologist who first described the symptom in 1890.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
The symptoms of Uhthoff's phenomenon can vary depending on the individual and the severity of their MS. However, common symptoms include:
These symptoms typically worsen with an increase in body temperature and improve once the body cools down.
Causes[edit | edit source]
Uhthoff's phenomenon is caused by an increase in body temperature, which can disrupt the transmission of nerve signals in people with MS. This is because heat can cause the already damaged myelin sheath to function less efficiently, leading to a temporary worsening of symptoms.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment for Uhthoff's phenomenon typically involves managing the underlying MS and avoiding triggers that can increase body temperature. This can include:
- Staying cool: This can involve staying in air-conditioned environments during hot weather, drinking cold fluids, and using cooling products such as vests and neck wraps.
- Managing MS: This can involve taking medication to manage MS symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.
See also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
Uhthoff's phenomenon Resources | ||
---|---|---|
|
|
Translate to: East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
Urdu,
বাংলা,
తెలుగు,
தமிழ்,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
русский,
português do Brasil,
Italian,
polski
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD