Climate change is no longer an abstract future scenario – we are experiencing it firsthand. Extreme weather conditions such as heatwaves, heavy rain or sudden cold snaps are becoming more frequent and more intense. However, these drastic changes not only have an impact on our environment, but also on our health and wellbeing. Let’s take a closer look at how weather changes affect our bodies and what we can do to better protect ourselves.
Heatwaves – A strain on body and mind
In recent years, heatwaves have become more frequent and more extreme. Temperatures above 35 degrees can lead to significant health problems. Older people, children and people with pre-existing medical conditions are particularly at risk. Symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, exhaustion or even heat stroke are not uncommon.
But it’s not just the body that suffers. Our psyche is also severely affected by prolonged heat. Sleep disorders, irritability and concentration problems can be the result. The lack of sleep and the constant effort to cool the body down can wear on the nerves.
Tip: On extremely hot days, it is important to drink plenty of fluids and avoid physical exertion. Cooling your own surroundings, for example with fans or darkened rooms, can also help. If possible, outdoor activities should be postponed until the morning or evening.
Air pollution – an invisible danger
In addition to extreme temperatures, air quality is also a growing problem. In hot weather, ozone levels often rise, which is particularly dangerous for people with respiratory diseases. Particulate matter and other pollutants in the air exacerbate the problem. Breathing in these particles can irritate the lungs, aggravate asthma and even increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Tip: One way to protect yourself from poor air quality is to use apps that provide real-time information on air pollution. This allows you to better plan when it is advisable to avoid outdoor activities.
Sudden changes in the weather – stress for the circulation
Cold snaps after a heatwave or vice versa – our body has to adapt quickly to changing conditions. Such abrupt weather changes are a real challenge for our cardiovascular system. People with low or high blood pressure in particular suffer from these fluctuations. The body often needs several days to adapt and during this time symptoms such as tiredness, dizziness or even circulatory problems can occur.
What can we do?
Fortunately, there are now many ways to protect yourself from extreme weather conditions. One of the best measures is to be well informed. This is where apps such as NINA, the federal government’s emergency information and news app, come into play. This app not only warns of storms, but also of other dangerous situations such as floods or forest fires. In addition to NINA, there are also regional weather apps that provide specific warnings and recommendations.
Such warning systems allow you to prepare for extreme weather conditions in good time and take appropriate precautions, whether by stocking up on extra water or cooling your living space in good time.
Preventive measures for your health
Even if we can’t control the weather changes, there are a few things you can do for your wellbeing:
– Hydration: Drink plenty of water, especially when temperatures are high. Good hydration helps the body to regulate temperature.
– Eat light: Avoid heavy meals in extreme heat. Light, water-rich foods such as fruit and vegetables are easier on the body.
– Regular exercise: Moderate exercise supports the cardiovascular system especially during temperature changes.
– Keep an eye on air quality: Use air purifiers indoors and avoid outdoor activities when air pollution is high.
Extreme weather conditions are becoming more and more frequent and this has a direct impact on our health. Whether it’s heat, cold or poor air quality – our bodies have to endure a lot. By preparing ourselves well, using warning apps such as NINA and taking care of our health, we can better cope with the challenges that climate change brings.
Want to find out more about the topic? You can get an exciting insight, for example, from the following publications by the World Health Organization here and here.