Effect of Lowering of Body Temperature on the Symptoms and Signs of Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

THE purpose of this report is to describe certain acute effects of lowering of body temperature upon the symptoms and signs of multiple sclerosis. The study was undertaken as a result of a remark and demonstration by a patient (B.M.) that her sight and capacity to move a limb long paralyzed were restored when she was immersed in cold water. Questioning of other patients with multiple sclerosis revealed that many experienced improvement after exposure to cold. Detailed study of the effect under controlled conditions showed that symptoms and signs of multiple sclerosis may indeed improve after exposure to cold. A . . .