Cleaning Your HVAC System

Posted on: 16 June 2015

If you have multiple sclerosis (MS), heat can cause symptoms to make your MS temporarily worsen. Even though you cannot get out of the heat completely, there are things you can do to help yourself stay cool this summer.

Free AC Unit

Contact the National Multiple Sclerosis Society in your area to see if you qualify for a free air conditioning unit. This does depend on where you live. If you get approved for one, they will install it in your home for you. In many cases, an air conditioning unit (such as those from http://rbincorporated.com/) is considered medical equipment. They may install a window or a modular unit. A modular unit is beneficial in that it is free standing, and no modifications are required to your home. You can also choose between a split system, which puts cold air throughout your home, and a single system, which cools only one room.

Cooling Products

You should always have a cooling vest on hand if you venture outside, as it will keep you much cooler. This vest is specially made to lower your body temperature, and make being outside much more bearable.  You can choose from three types, as follows:

• Ice chilled: These vests have energy packs, which are placed in a freezer and then placed in pockets on the cooling vest.
• Evaporative cooling: These vests are submerged in water for a few minutes, and then you lightly wring them out. This vest is worn outside the clothing. How long it stays cool depends on the vest you purchase.
• Cold pack: This type of vest uses ice packs that are frozen. These vests work well in extreme heat and humidity because the ice packs are completely frozen they will last longer.

You can also purchase a range of headbands, hats, and neck pillows that cool down to give you some relief. These products are submerged in cold water, and then wrung out.

If you cannot afford these products, the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America has a Cooling Distribution Program to help you get them.

Misting Fans

They make small handheld misting fans, which you can use to blow a fine mist of water onto your body. Large misting fans can be installed outside on your deck, patio, or porch. They can be mounted on an overhead beam or to a wall. There are freestanding misting fans that you can sit on the ground also.

If you like spending time outdoors at your home, consider installing a pool that you can jump into when you get too hot.