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Multiple Sclerosis - MS LifeLines

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"I learned to see life in a different way."

Health Tips

Keeping your cool all summer long

Have you ever taken a hot shower and experienced a brief episode of blurred vision or leg spasms? Whether you knew it or not, you might have been experiencing a pseudo-relapse, which is a temporary aggravation of MS symptoms. While pseudo-relapses can come and go very quickly (most often within 24 hours), they are not related to new inflammations in the central nervous system and are not an actual worsening of the disease. Still, a pseudo-relapse can be inconvenient and sometimes downright scary. You should always call your doctor right away if you have any concerns or questions.

When you are living with relapsing MS, staying cool in the summer is especially important, particularly since the majority of pseudo-relapses are triggered by a rise in body temperature. Here are some tips to help you stay cool this summer.

Cool off

Using central air or air conditioning is a great way to keep your home cool on hot days. If you don't have air conditioning in your home, try cooling down by taking cool baths or showers and using fans to circulate air. Or visit a local mall, café or library to escape the heat.

Think to drink

Did you know that a cool drink really can help you lower your core body temperature? Drink plenty of fluids, especially water. While iced coffee, iced tea and soda are summertime favorites, don't overdo it. These caffeinated beverages can increase the flow of water from your body, leaving you more susceptible to dehydration.

Unleash your inner animal

If you've ever been to the zoo on a hot summer day, you know that most animals are only active in early mornings or after dusk when the sun is lower in the sky. Follow their lead and avoid the mid-day sun. Plan favorite activities earlier or later in the day when it is cooler.

Dress for success

On hot days, be sure to wear comfortable, loose fabrics (such as cotton) which allow the skin to breathe. You can also consider wearing products such as cooling collars and cooling vests, which can help your body stay cool for hours at a time. Or for an easy way to cool down quickly—apply a cold, wet facecloth to your forehead, back of your neck, wrists or feet.

Exercise your options

Swimming is a great way to stay fit and cool at the same time; you can also consider water-walking and water aerobics. Yoga is a great way to exercise when you have relapsing MS, and it can be done almost anywhere, including in an air-conditioned room in your home. Just remember to talk with your doctor before beginning any kind of exercise program.

Hutchinson, Brian. You Can...Beat the Heat.

Brought to you by EMD Serono, Inc. and Pfizer Inc, the co-marketers of Rebif® (interferon beta-1a) in the US EMD SeronoPfizer

Prescribing Information - Medication Guide

This information is intended only for residents of the United States.

Rebif is used to treat relapsing forms of MS to decrease the frequency of relapses and delay the occurrence of some of the physical disability that is common in people with MS. Efficacy has been established in controlled studies up to 2 years in duration. Rebif is not approved for the treatment of chronic progressive multiple sclerosis. Rebif is available by prescription only in 22 mcg and 44 mcg pre-filled syringes and a titration pack.

Before beginning treatment, patients should discuss with their doctor the potential benefits and risks associated with Rebif. Let your doctor know if you have a history of depression, seizures, liver disease, thyroid problems, and blood count or bleeding problems or if you have had previous allergic reactions to medications. Tell your doctor about all medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements. Rebif and other medicines may affect each other causing serious side effects. Talk to your doctor before you take any new medicines. Rebif is not recommended for women who are or plan to become pregnant.

Potential serious side effects of Rebif include depression, liver problems, risk to pregnancy, injection site problems and severe allergic reactions. Allergic reactions are rare and may be associated with difficulty breathing and loss of consciousness, which requires immediate medical attention.

The most common side effects with Rebif are injection site reactions, flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, muscle aches, tiredness), depression, abdominal pain, increased liver enzymes, and blood cell count decreases. Let your doctor know immediately if you have any of these symptoms or feel sad, tired, hot or cold, experience hives, rashes, bruising, yellowing of the skin, or a change in body weight (gain or loss).

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

This information is not intended to replace discussions with your healthcare provider. For additional information about Rebif, please consult the Medication Guide or Prescribing Information and talk to your doctor. You can also call toll free 1-877-44-REBIF (1-877-447-3243). Rebif is available by prescription only.

MS LifeLines is an educational support service for people living with MS and their families. MS LifeLines and MS LifeLines Ambassadors are sponsored by EMD Serono, Inc. and Pfizer Inc.

Rebif, Rebiject II and MS LifeLines are registered trademarks and the Rebif logo is a trademark of EMD Serono, Inc. or its affiliates.

MS in Balance Your Life in Full is a service mark of EMD Serono, Inc. or its affiliates.

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