When the sky becomes gray and the rain begins to fall, frowns appear and crowds hurry indoors. Umbrellas spring open as displeased voices multiply. Almost everybody looks outside in disappointment, and the day appears to be a waste. Still, while many people continue on with their daily activities, some become severely affected by the weather, experiencing everything from various states of sadness to physical ailments.

Headaches and overactive sinuses are common disorders resulting from such rainy days. Sufferers turn to aspirin, sinus medication, or herbal tea in order to alleviate their pain. These medications, however, only temporarily eliminate the symptoms. Thus, it is extremely likely for these symptoms to reappear during the season. Despite the overwhelming availability of analgesics, true 'cures' for the ailments associated with changes in weather don't seem to exist.

How much of a role does weather factor into our health? Although specific, biochemical mechanisms have not been proven to cause these symptoms, research suggests that climate changes are likely to induce physiological and psychological symptoms. One reason why this research lacks specificity is the fact that weather variations and responses represent a vast mosaic. A number of atmospheric factors exist, such as barometric pressure and pollen concentration, which contribute to a wide variety of symptoms and reactions to these changes. A two-month study, taking place in the UK, shows that a rise in asthma cases after storms is associated with differing environment changes. The participants were classified according to certain stimuli. Some patients experienced symptoms only when humidity increased while others exhibited the same signs in response to falling air temperatures and high grass pollen concentration [1]. Therefore, many factors can have specific effects while a single factor may lead to many simultaneous symptoms.

One disorder in particular that interests researchers studying the effects of weather changes is Seasonal affective disorder (SAD). The pattern of SAD is characterized by depression during the winter months when periods of daylight are short, followed by an improvement in mood as daylight increases in the spring. In addition, SAD has been shown to affect the hormone systems of those experiencing negative effects from weather.

In particular, the neurotransmitter serotonin appears to play a major role in SAD. An irregularity in the serotonin releasing cycle during summer and winter months relates to a higher number of symptoms being reported during weather changes. The availability of the amino acid tryptophan, which is a precursor of serotonin, seems to be the origin [2].

The dysfunction of neurotransmitters has been also linked to specific genes. Researchers believe that polymorphism in the gene 5-HTTLPR, which produces transporters for serotonin, is a primary factor [3]. A solid conclusion in favor of the genetic-based argument, however, will not result without more data.

There are other ways to lower the chance of experiencing weather-related problems. The best way to prevent such symptoms is to maintain a stable environment for oneself. Also, cigarettes and alcohol may enhance and prolong weather-related symptoms. Although extensive research is still needed in order to understand these peculiar mechanisms, it is clear that weather can play a significant role in our health.

Adarsh is a third-year student majoring in the biological sciences. He aspires to enter the field of medicine.