Improving Weather Tolerance: A Handy Tip to Consider
In the ever-changing world of weather, some individuals may find themselves more affected than others. This article explores the German Weather Service's Wettersensitivitätsrisikoverzeichnis, a risk directory designed to help assess how weather conditions impact the health of sensitive individuals.
Prof. Martin Scherer, director of the Institute and Polyclinic for General Medicine at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), has highlighted that weather conditions can affect the autonomic nervous system, causing symptoms such as dizziness, circulatory problems, and general discomfort.
The Wettersensitivitätsrisikoverzeichnis provides data on weather-driven risks, including UV exposure, which is indicated by the UV index. This index indicates the intensity of UV radiation and the corresponding protective measures needed for vulnerable groups. The indices are displayed on an overview map of Germany, which can be filtered by settings.
The map uses a simple color scale to estimate whether the predicted weather will have a positive, negative, or no impact on the health of weather-sensitive people. For instance, high UV indices are associated with increased risk of sunburn and skin damage, while low temperatures and dry air can weaken the immune system and make one more susceptible to pathogens.
Changes in air pressure or humidity can also affect the body's well-being, mood, and performance. Rapidly falling or rising temperatures can challenge the body, leading to symptoms of weather sensitivity.
It's important to note that personal factors like stress or working conditions may contribute to weather sensitivity. Less movement and less time outdoors can exacerbate these symptoms, while daily walks in any weather can help the body adapt to temperature changes and cope with them better, according to Scherer.
If symptoms persist for a longer period, it's recommended to consult a general practitioner. Spending a lot of time indoors, such as when working in an office, can also contribute to weather sensitivity symptoms.
The German Weather Service offers weather sensitivity hazard indices on its website, providing information on the current influences for today and the near future. By understanding and following these indices, individuals can take steps to mitigate the effects of weather sensitivity and maintain their health and well-being.
