What can exacerbate fatigue experienced by people with MS?

Environmental heat can significantly exacerbate fatigue in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). This phenomenon is often referred to as Uhthoff's phenomenon, where an increase in body temperature can temporarily worsen neurological symptoms, including fatigue. In MS, the integrity of the myelin sheath around nerves is compromised. Heat can disrupt nerve conduction, leading to heightened fatigue and other neurological symptoms. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals with MS to manage their exposure to heat, particularly during warmer weather or when engaging in vigorous physical activities.

Physical rest, while generally aimed at reducing fatigue, does not exacerbate it; instead, it often helps alleviate fatigue. Similarly, consuming caffeine has a varied impact on fatigue and may provide temporary alertness, while taking prescribed medications is intended to manage symptoms effectively and thus would generally not contribute to increased fatigue.