How to Support Someone with Impaired Thermoregulation

I thought I'd make this thread because there's not too much info on this condition or how to manage it. I unfortunately have to live with this condition daily - so this "guide" is for caretakers who have clients who have it as well.

There is unfortunately not enough research to diagnose this condition, impaired thermoregulation isn't always a result of heart or thyroid issues.
Certain medications can contribute to symptoms but might not be the direct cause.

Everyone experiences this condition differently and will have different tolerances, I am in no way suggesting you use me as a baseline - but this insight could help with supporting others with the same condition.

Misconceptions

• Impaired thermoregulation is NOT always a result of being overweight, but it can be a contributing factor - don't always assume it is.
• Impaired thermoregulation is NOT always caused by thyroid or heart conditions, but can be triggered by existing ones.
• Impaired thermoregulation DOES contribute to lack of exercise motivation - heavy workouts, chores or other activities are more difficult as a result of the body not being able to maintain a consistent core temperature.
• Impaired thermoregulation CAN be managed to decrease symptoms but not neutralize them.

Risks

• Dehydration - Individuals are more prone to dehydration and should be drinking more than the recommended water intake.
• Heatstroke - individuals with this condition are more likely to experience heatstroke or similar symptoms, even in warm climates.
• Hypothermia - Individuals with this condition are more likely to become hypothermic in cold environments and should dress warm, however layers should be easily removable to prevent overheat.
• Regulation Failure - A situation where the body is experiencing symptoms of the mentioned above and becomes confused. The body will feel as if it is experiencing both hot and cold temperatures simultaneously regardless of actual recorded body temperature.
• Sweating - This is a common side-effect of this condition and can cause rapid dehydration.

Supports

• Never try to cool down/warm up someone with this condition yourself, episodes often provide sensory overload and overstimulation can make things worse.
• Remind people with this condition to stay hydrated. (Sometimes people forget)
• Take note of their temperature tolerances, room temperature and weather. Outdoor spaces should always have access to shade, if none is available - limit time spent outdoors if the weather becomes intolerant.
• Plan activities or games that can be done indoors, people with this condition will likely be introverts and won't want to go outside often. (But should be encouraged to, but not forced)
• Never adjust climate controls/thermostat without asking, sudden temperature changes can trigger symptoms.

Obviously take all of this with a grain of salt, I'm not a doctor and sometimes I'm wrong. But hopefully this helps someone better understand this condition.