
Good weather, good mood! But when thunderclouds suddenly appear instead of sunshine, 54 percent of all Germans are not only affected by the weather, but also by their health. Some people groan when they hear "Atlantic lows" on the news. Because that means that the coming change in weather will be hard on the bones. The circulation goes limp, many become tired and irritable - some even have to contend with severe headaches. A clear case of weather sensitivity. Experts call this phenomenon meteoropathy. It can lead to painful dysfunctions. It hits people with joint pain, migraines, rheumatism, fibromyalgia and blood pressure problems particularly hard. Where does this come from? Our body constantly adapts to changes in temperature and air pressure. The body does not react quickly enough to weather complaints. The cause is unclear. One theory is that we have forgotten how to deal with the weather due to well-tempered indoor spaces. In any case, there is no single cause of weather sensitivity, as the interaction between temperature, air pressure and light is complex. What can you do about weather sensitivity?
Who is affected by weather sensitivity
Older people suffer more often than younger people and women more often than men. People with mental illnesses are particularly susceptible. But changeable weather can also exacerbate the symptoms of rheumatism patients. Scars also pinch or hurt more now. And those who suffer from stress or lack of sleep are also affected by changes in the weather.
Strengthen the immune system
Exercise in the fresh air not only helps to banish tiredness, but also to strengthen the immune system and produce more serotonin, the happiness hormone. Outdoor sport also teaches you to adapt better to changing weather conditions. But please don't overdo it, take it easy instead.
Stress the body
We should get our bodies used to fluctuations again. This means going to the sauna more often, alternating showers and going for walks in all weathers - even during an Atlantic low. So, put your shoes on and get out!
Keep a headache diary
Headaches when the weather changes are a classic. Affected people should therefore keep a headache diary when fluctuations are on the horizon. This is generally recommended for all situations that lead to migraine attacks. If a pattern can be identified, your doctor can initiate appropriate treatment.
Drink a lot when feeling under the weather
Many people have a problem with extreme temperature fluctuations from cold to warm. Unfortunately, this is a phenomenon that often occurs. It's no wonder that you don't feel well, as the blood vessels dilate and blood pressure drops. The motto then is: drink, drink, drink! But only drinks such as water or spritzers, please. Don't drink alcohol on such days, as alcohol dehydrates the body and leads to headaches.
Eat lightly
Your body will actually tell you what it wants: when it feels the weather with every fiber of its being and it hits its stomach, it needs light food. For example, enjoy salads, soups, chicken or fish with vegetables or rice. The main thing is nothing heavy or fatty. Fatty or flatulent foods should be removed from the diet and replaced with raw vegetables, fresh fruit, olive or rapeseed oil. Cigarettes and alcohol are taboo, water and tea are allowed.
Ensure relaxation
Of course, the game with temperatures and air pressure also works the other way round: if temperatures fall, blood pressure rises again. People who already have high blood pressure should avoid stimulating foods and stimulants such as alcohol, cigarettes and coffee. You should also do anything that relaxes you, such as taking a leisurely walk, reading a good book or taking a relaxing bath.
Ensure a good night's sleep
It's not just moon worshippers who sleep badly during a full moon - in fact, changes in the weather are also said to cause or promote sleep problems. Old household remedies such as moderate exercise in the evening can help - please do not set any sporting records in the evening, as this will have the opposite effect. Don't watch TV until shortly before going to bed, especially avoid movies and shows that make you very upset. If possible, always go to bed at the same time - your body is a creature of habit and will thank you for it.
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