With his symptoms easing due to cold weather, my brother seizes the day
The bitter New York cold actually was an advantage in this case
Written by |
Opportunities often arise when we least expect them, as the saying goes. My twin brother, Aaron, recently told me that the frigid weather in New York City has given him a chance to return to the gym.
Aaron explained that his symptoms of myasthenia gravis (MG) improve dramatically in cold weather. While hot temperatures worsen his muscle weakness and can trigger flare-ups, colder days bring relief. His energy also plummets in the heat, and he’s lost his balance and fallen on particularly hot days. Because MG affects his balance, Aaron avoids the edges of subway platforms and is extra cautious when crossing streets. Sometimes, if he senses his balance is off, he doesn’t go out at all.
With this extended spell of cold weather in New York, Aaron’s energy was high, so he decided to seize the day and head to the gym.
Still not sure why, but he’ll take it
We chatted online (I live in the Philippines), and it was heartening to hear him in such good spirits. I remember being snowed in during harsh New York winters, and it can be discouraging. But Aaron was determined to make the most of the day, despite the biting cold. He mentioned that his grip strength improves noticeably on colder days.
Researchers are investigating why low temperatures sometimes seem to alleviate MG symptoms. Some believe that heat increases signal disruption between muscle nerve receptors and the brain, and cold reduces it. Scientists are testing extreme cooling vests and whole-body cooling methods to ease symptoms, but so far, there have been no breakthroughs.
When I asked Aaron if his doctors had any insight, he said they didn’t know either. The research continues, but conclusive answers remain elusive for now. For Aaron, what mattered most was making the most of the day.
In the past, I’ve suggested that he consider using a cane, but he’s reluctant to do that. We discussed the possibility of moving to a colder climate in the future, but for now, he’s accustomed to life in New York.
As Aaron got ready to leave for the gym, we ended our video call. I was grateful his symptoms had eased, though I wished it didn’t take arctic conditions for that relief. Then I remembered his own words to me: “It’s better to stay positive and focus on the opportunities life gives you.”
Note: Myasthenia Gravis News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Myasthenia Gravis News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to myasthenia gravis.
Leave a comment
Fill in the required fields to post. Your email address will not be published.