Darrick Robles We sweat when it’s hot and freeze when it’s cold. When the sun goes down, we get tired. And we’re in a bad mood when it rains continuously and coldly. Clearly, the weather has a major impact on us humans. But can a change in weather also cause headaches and other symptoms? Or is weather sensitivity pure imagination? We took a closer look at the phenomenon.
Is weather sensitivity real?
Especially in spring (keyword: spring fatigue ) and autumn, when temperatures fluctuate sharply, many people have the feeling that this affects their physical well-being. Symptoms that are frequently observed when the weather changes are primarily:
- fatigue
- circulatory problems
- Headaches or migraines
- nervousness
- sleep disorders
- Depressive moods
It is assumed that the weather conditions affect the autonomic nervous system, which we cannot influence at will. However, there are hardly any medical studies that prove a causal connection. Accordingly, weather sensitivity is not considered an illness. However, it has been proven that rising temperatures and falling air pressure values can trigger weather-related headaches in migraine sufferers.
Weather Sensitivity or Weather Sensitivity?
Weather sensitivity is to be distinguished from weather sensitivity. In people who are sensitive to the weather, certain existing ailments that occur as a result of chronic illnesses or injuries worsen. These include e.g. B. asthma , rheumatism and high blood pressure . In people with cardiovascular diseases, the risk of a heart attack can increase because the blood vessels constrict in the cold.
This is how you can get rid of your weather sensitivity
While there is a lack of scientifically based evidence of weather sensitivity, the symptoms many people experience are absolutely real – and can be alleviated. So what to do if you are sensitive to the weather? The following tips apply to anyone who wants to counteract their weather change symptoms and has no previous illnesses.
Tip 1: Keep a symptom diary
Are my headaches due to the weather change? In principle, this question can only be answered individually. A symptom diary can be of great service here. Regular entries make it possible to recognize patterns and connections over time. Ideally, you can then follow the weather report on this basis and, if necessary (in consultation with a doctor), take appropriate medication in good time. You can read exactly how to keep a symptom diary in our article on symptom diaries.
Tip 2: Promote health holistically
A healthy lifestyle can help significantly to get rid of the typical symptoms of weather sensitivity. Not surprisingly, this includes: a varied and balanced diet , enough sleep , regular exercise and not nicotine and alcohol . Sufficient fluid intake is also important, especially in headache weather . In addition, you should prevent stress , now in autumn e.g. B. with a relaxing bath.
Tip 3: Exercise a lot in the fresh air
Go outside! Walking in the fresh air (in any weather) trains the cardiovascular system, which is often responsible for the typical symptoms of weather changes. This is even more important if you usually spend most of the day in air-conditioned rooms. You can also combine your time outdoors with a small sports session, such as walking, jogging or cycling. Important: dress warmly in cold temperatures!
Tip 4: Practice changing the weather with water
The weather change can also be trained with the help of water. Sauna sessions and Kneipp treatments are suitable here. Hot-cold training is even easier with alternating showers in the bathroom at home. Conveniently, this also strengthens the vessels, metabolism and immune system . But beware: It is particularly important for such applications that you are in good health. If in doubt, consult a doctor.
Conclusion: defy the change in weather
You’re not at the mercy of headache weather. With the above tips you can specifically prevent weather sensitivity. However, if a change in the weather is causing you a headache or other ailment that you would prefer to get clarified, you can of course always speak to a doctor about Med-Healths.
