The foehn wind is a well-known weather phenomenon that affects many people. When this warm, dry wind blows, numerous people experience symptoms like fatigue, lethargy, headaches, and even migraines or body aches. But why does the body react so strongly to the foehn wind? In this article, we explain the reasons and show how the foehn wind affects the body.
Foehn winds occur when moist air masses flow over mountains, cool down, and then descend on the other side as warm, dry air. This process leads to air pressure fluctuations that can irritate the autonomic nervous system. In sensitive individuals, sudden changes in pressure can trigger symptoms like headaches, migraines, and dizziness. The body often struggles to quickly adapt to these pressure changes, which can lead to the described complaints.
Another factor at play during foehn weather is the ionization of the air. The foehn wind increases the concentration of positive ions in the air, which can negatively affect the well-being of some people. Positively charged ions can reduce oxygen uptake in the body, leading to fatigue, concentration difficulties, and a general feeling of discomfort. In contrast, negative ions (such as those found after a thunderstorm or near waterfalls) often have a refreshing and energizing effect.
The foehn wind brings a sudden rise in temperature and a significant drop in humidity. These rapid weather changes can strain the cardiovascular system and may exacerbate symptoms, especially in people with chronic conditions like migraines or rheumatic complaints. The body often finds it difficult to quickly adjust to the changing conditions, which leads to the typical symptoms.
The foehn wind can disrupt the autonomic nervous system, which controls many involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate, breathing, and digestion. Disruptions in this system can cause symptoms like restlessness, nervousness, and insomnia. Mood swings are also more frequently observed during foehn weather.
There is evidence that the foehn wind influences the release of histamine in the body. Histamine is a substance that plays a role in inflammation and allergic reactions and can also trigger headaches or migraines. People who are sensitive to histamine may therefore experience more pronounced symptoms during foehn weather.
The foehn wind affects the body not only through climatic conditions but also influences various biological processes. People who are sensitive to weather changes often suffer particularly strongly from the effects of the foehn. The symptoms vary individually and can range from fatigue and sleep problems to severe migraine attacks.
If you regularly experience symptoms during foehn weather, pay attention to your body’s signals and try to avoid stressful activities on those days. Sometimes, staying well-hydrated and planning relaxing activities can help support the body.
The effects of the foehn wind can be very uncomfortable, especially if you are sensitive to weather changes. In this case, it's helpful to pay attention to foehn forecasts. Here are some tips:
1. Drink plenty of water
2. Figure out whether movement or rest works better for you
3. Take deep breaths regularly, rolling your shoulders back as you do
4. In Austria, you can find "weather sensitivity drops" at the pharmacy. I am a big fan of these as they help minimize weather sensitivity symptoms to a manageable level. I mostly use them during spring and autumn when weather shifts are intense, as well as in summer when there are sudden changes in the weather.
5. Shiatsu: In Shiatsu, we can work on your body's ability to adapt, focusing particularly on strengthening the Triple Heater Meridian, which plays a key role in this process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the foehn wind?
The foehn is a warm, dry wind that occurs when moist air masses move over mountains, cool down, and then warm up and dry out as they descend on the other side.
Why does the foehn cause migraines?
Air pressure fluctuations and the increased concentration of positive ions can trigger migraines in many people.
What can be done to combat fatigue caused by the foehn?
A healthy diet, adequate hydration, and rest breaks can help alleviate fatigue. Relaxation exercises and stress reduction also contribute to reducing the effects of the foehn.
This blog post explains the effects of the foehn on the body and provides valuable insights for anyone wanting to learn more about the connection between weather and health.