Is Peripheral Neuropathy Worse in the Summer?

The Heat Is Here

The summer solstice starts on June 21st, and we are weeks away from the hottest time of the year in Texas. Though summer brings longer days, vacations, and BBQs by the pool, it can also bring draining consequences for those that have peripheral neuropathy. Why is this?

Many individuals who suffer from peripheral neuropathy experience tingling and burning sensations during standard temperatures. When temperatures rise, burning sensations can become more intense due to “temperature sensitivity,” which means that any extreme temperature, whether hot or cold, can worsen symptoms and increase pain.

Thankfully, you don’t have to “live through the pain” this summer. Follow these tips to beat the heat and keep your or a loved one’s neuropathy symptoms at bay:

Know The Risks of Sunburns

If you have peripheral neuropathy, you might be less likely to feel pain or temperature sensations on your skin; for example, you may not be able to tell if you are getting a sunburn. To avoid sunburn, limit your time outside unless you’re in the water, wear a light-weight sun shirt, and always wear sunscreen and a hat.

Stay Hydrated

Since you might not feel symptoms of a sunburn, you might also not feel the signs of dehydration in the heat. Furthermore, esophageal nerve disorders might make swallowing difficult. You could have trouble swallowing and hydrating when you want to quench your thirst. If you experience difficulty swallowing, we suggest sitting in an upright, 90-degree position to ease water flow.

Additionally, be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to maintain electrolyte balance and fluids, preventing dehydration.

Listen to Your Body When Participating in Physical Activity

While summer offers an abundance of opportunities to exercise, be sure to keep track of when it may be too much. If you wish to partake in physical activity during the summer months, consider performing them early in the morning or later in the evening when the day is cool.

Additionally, swimming in a pool, lake, or ocean can relieve chronic pain and keep your body cool this summer without overheating.

Relieve Your Symptoms at Neuropathy Treatment Clinics of Texas

We understand that chronic pain symptoms from neuropathy can be debilitating, especially in the heat. We are here for you and eager to help you live a pain-free life!

Our medical professionals at Neuropathy Treatment Clinics of Texas will diagnose the cause of your peripheral neuropathy and prescribe a personalized treatment plan to address your medical condition before treatment begins.

Request an appointment online or call (972) 441-5634 today to get on your path to a pain-free life this summer.