Some observations on Alpine climate

Abstract

Summary To resume: The Alpine climate (as exemplified at Davos 5,200 to 6,000 feet above the sea) differs from that of the plains in the following characteristics: Cool, dry air. Absence of wind, especially in winter; increased intensity of solar radiation (the heat energy of this stimulates the circulation of blood through the body, but of even greater value is the specific action of the ultra-violet radiation, a powerful agent, both prophylactic and healing). The pure and clean air. Absence of dust, particles of soot, dirt, microorganisms, and other contaminations of necessity met with in the air of the plains, and especially of towns. Diminished atmospheric pressure. This leads to diminution of the oxygen content, and thus encourages deeper breathing and rejuvenation of the red blood cells. Cooling power. The cold, dry, calm air has a most important effect on its cooling power, and so on the sensation of warmth. The temperature of the air is low. It is never unpleasantly hot in the summer months, and in the winter, although the thermometer may be far below freezing point, this dry, still cold is neither unpleasant nor injurious. Research has proved that Davos, for its height, has a climate which makes remarkably small demands for heat production, and thus exerts a minimal strain on the heat-regulating mechanism of the body. Davos may thus be taken as an outstanding example of a good mountain climate, eminently suitable both as a prophylactic and a healing agent in certain morbid states. This therapeutic power is certainly as good in the summer months as in the winter. In the opinion of some medical men of long experience the best results are obtained in the summer. The principal conditions which may expect to derive benefit from a sojourn in the Alps are, briefly, the following: Pulmonary tuberculosis, if not too far advanced; surgical tuberculosis; asthma, chronic bronchitis, and bronchiectasis; convalescence after acute illness; an˦mia. Mountain climate is especially suitable for delicate, backward children, predisposed to tuberculosis and of bad family history—cases, for example, of poor physical development, enlarged glands, chronic bronchial trouble, asthma or adenoids. In this type of case there is always a very rapid and encouraging improvement.