Nordic walking: The light endurance training strengthens the cardiovascular system – and can therefore prevent sensitivity to the weather. (Source: IMAGO/Hanno Bode/imago-bilder)
Temperatures are expected to drop significantly in the next few days. For some this means headaches and circulatory problems. That doesn’t have to be the case.
Significant changes in temperature and humidity can cause headaches, dizziness and exhaustion in people sensitive to the weather. A common cause of so-called weather sensitivity is a cardiovascular system that is not sufficiently trained, as Prof. Angela Schuh explains. She is head of the Department of Medical Climatology, Spa Medicine and Prevention at the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich .
Regular training of the cardiovascular system helps
According to Schuh, sensitivity to the weather can be counteracted through light endurance training. If you regularly challenge your body with moderate hikes, walks, cycling or walks, you strengthen your circulation – and prevent sensitivity to the weather. It is advisable to get around three hours of exercise in the fresh air throughout the week, regardless of the weather .
“At the same time, people who are overtrained are also particularly sensitive,” says the expert. Light to moderate endurance training is the best way to prevent this. Ideally, you shouldn’t be dressed too warmly: “You should have a slightly cool body shell, but not freeze,” advises Schuh.
A regular daily routine that includes regular wake-up times, bedtime times, and meals can also help reduce sensitivity to the weather. Regular sleep is particularly important: those who are sensitive to the weather should allow themselves at least seven hours. You should also avoid stimulants if possible and pay attention to a healthy diet.
Be careful with people with previous illnesses
In people with a previous illness, certain weather conditions can worsen the symptoms, for example in heart patients. If the temperature drops quickly, the risk of a heart attack or stroke increases . People with heart disease should therefore retreat to warm, heated rooms when temperatures drop quickly. Cold and damp can also increase symptoms such as pain in bones and joints in rheumatism patients.