How does the weather affect our bodies?

Many people react sensitively to weather changes, but it is important to distinguish this kind of sensitivity (called meteoropathy in medical terminology) from complaints that occur during weather changes. The latter are present when the weather negatively affects an existing disease (for example cardiovascular disorders or rheumatic complaints), whereas in the former case patients react overly sensitively to meteorological phenomena because of their low threshold of stimulation.

From a medical standpoint, meteoropathy cannot be considered a disease; when present, affected people are sensitive to temperature changes, fluctuating humidity, winds and variations in atmospheric pressure, which can lead to decreased performance and concentration, sleep disturbances, and can negatively affect general well-being and mood.

Who is most sensitive to weather processes?

Most people are sensitive to some degree, but sensitivity tends to increase with age. In addition to the elderly, weather changes also have a significant impact on newborns and children.

Regarding gender distribution, women are the "winners" in this respect. Women always react more strongly to weather changes than men because they are constitutionally more sensitive and have a lower threshold of stimulation. Often they notice even relatively mild changes that do not trigger any reaction in men.

The body's responses to different weather situations

I have collected some weather situations and the reactions that the human body generally produces in response to them.

• High-pressure stationary front with mild temperature and dry air: refreshes the body, has a stimulating effect; may slightly raise blood pressure.
• Warm, mild and dry weather with rising temperature: does not burden the body; on the contrary, it can increase performance and good mood.
• Sunny, warm, dry weather with falling pressure: intensifies headaches and migraines, and can worsen heart and circulatory disorders.
• Prolonged hot weather: increases the tendency to inflammation; heart attacks and embolisms become more frequent.

What can you do if you are sensitive to weather changes?

Support your immune system, which you can do with the following measures:

• Spend as much time as possible outdoors in fresh air.
• Ventilate your home regularly.
• Eat a varied diet; consume plenty of vegetables and fruits, and overall foods rich in vitamins, minerals and trace elements.
• Drink enough fluids (water, not sugary drinks).
• Exercise regularly. I especially recommend endurance-building activities such as Nordic walking, jogging, running, cycling and swimming.
• Get enough sleep! Do not underestimate the importance of sleep!
• Allow time for rest.
• Consume alcohol in moderation and do not smoke at all.