Although less heating is believed to help save energy in the future, the symptoms of some diseases can worsen at lower temperatures.
According to the federal government, some regulations “to guarantee energy supply” have been in force in Germany since 1 September. Among other things, these provide that tenants can turn down the heating or turn it off completely, contrary to what is stipulated in the lease. According to the clause, tenants generally undertake towards the landlords to ensure a certain minimum temperature in the rented rooms by heating. This prevents the possible formation of mold on the walls. In order to save energy and challenge gas prices, this extraordinary regulation may seem reasonable at first glance to some. But for people with certain conditions, such as eczema and osteoarthritis, cooler rooms can mean a worsening of their symptoms.
Cold from less heating: three diseases that can make you worse
While energy-saving measures can make political sense, a lower ambient temperature can affect health or symptoms of existing diseases. According to Professor Heinz-Jörn Moriske, director of the Federal Environment Agency, it is possible heat less in the apartmentsgo down to 19 degrees or less, but 20 degrees is better. “Inside, 20 to 22 degrees is optimal for well-being and ultimately also for health”, quotes Das Germany publishing network Professor I die.
With some diseases, existing symptoms can be aggravated by cold or excessively cold room temperatures, so those affected need to evaluate how far lower warming makes sense to them. Children and the elderly should also ensure a certain room temperature.
Osteoarthritis: cold and frost affect
People with osteoarthritis complain of joint pain, such as in the hips or knees, due to wear and tear. Any movement increases the symptoms. At low temperatures, the muscles contract. This puts pressure on the joints, causing them to swell and hurt even more, as well Online Doctor describes.
Neurodermatitis: the cold makes the skin even drier
In the cold, human skin produces less sebum than at normal, high temperatures. As a result, the risk of dehydration is even greater, so much so that people with chronic skin neurodermatitis suffer from it.
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Asthma: fresh air goes to the bronchi
Cold temperatures can cause shortness of breath in people with severe asthma, as the bronchi react to cold stimuli with spasms. Affected persons should always breathe through the nose in a cool environment, as the air is somewhat preheated.
This article contains only general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or therapy. In no way does it replace a visit to the doctor. Unfortunately, our editors are not authorized to answer individual questions about clinical pictures.
