Climate change is increasingly being recognized as a health concern that extends beyond heat exhaustion and respiratory problems. Rising temperatures, worsening air quality and shifting patterns of infectious diseases may also affect the brain and nervous system.

Researchers and medical specialists warn that these environmental pressures could increase the burden of neurological conditions across Europe, particularly among older people and communities with limited protection from extreme weather.

Extreme Heat Creates Additional Pressure

High temperatures are among the most immediate environmental threats to neurological health. During periods of extreme heat, the body must work harder to maintain a stable internal temperature. Dehydration and changes in blood circulation can place additional strain on the cardiovascular and nervous systems.

According to neurologist Ulf Kallweit, chair of the European Academy of Neurology's Environmental Influences in Neurology Task Force, cases of certain serious vascular events increase when temperatures rise above 30°C. He warned that heat-related cases could account for a larger share of the overall burden in coming decades if temperatures continue to increase.

Heat can also affect people indirectly by disturbing sleep. When nighttime temperatures remain above 20°C, the body may struggle to cool down sufficiently. This can reduce sleep quality and interfere with the restorative processes that support memory, concentration and emotional regulation.

Occasional restless nights are generally manageable, but prolonged sleep disruption may have more serious consequences. Research has associated persistent poor sleep with cognitive difficulties and a higher likelihood of developing certain neurological conditions.

Air Pollution Adds Another Environmental Risk

Temperature is only one part of the problem. Air pollution can also influence brain health through several biological pathways. Fine particulate matter and other pollutants can enter the respiratory system, trigger inflammation and contribute to changes in blood vessel function.

Some airborne particles and pollution-related compounds may also contribute to processes that affect the nervous system. Long-term exposure has been investigated in connection with cognitive decline and dementia, although the strength of evidence varies between pollutants and health outcomes.

Urban residents may experience several environmental pressures simultaneously, including traffic emissions, excessive noise, limited green space and warmer nighttime conditions. When these factors occur together, their combined effects may be more difficult for the body to manage.

Changing Climate Patterns May Spread Infections

Warmer temperatures and changes in rainfall can influence where mosquitoes and ticks survive. As their geographical ranges shift, certain infections may become more common in areas that previously experienced fewer cases. Some infections transmitted by these insects can affect the nervous system. Lyme borreliosis, for example, is caused by bacteria transmitted through infected ticks. In certain cases, the infection can lead to neurological complications involving nerves and the brain.

Mosquito-borne diseases are another concern. Changes in temperature and environmental conditions may create more suitable habitats for disease-carrying mosquitoes in parts of Europe. However, climate conditions alone do not determine whether an outbreak occurs. Travel, public health monitoring, mosquito control and local environmental factors also influence transmission.

Why Certain Communities Face Greater Risks

Climate-related health pressures do not affect every person equally. Older adults, children, pregnant women and people with existing medical conditions may be more sensitive to extreme temperatures and environmental changes. Housing conditions and access to cooling also matter. People living in poorly insulated buildings may experience greater indoor heat, while limited access to air conditioning or shaded outdoor areas can make hot periods more difficult to manage.

Expert Insight

Neurologist Ulf Kallweit, who leads the European Academy of Neurology's environmental influences task force, highlighted how widespread neurological conditions have become. Speaking to Euronews Health, he stated: “Everybody is somehow affected or knows somebody who is affected by a neurological disorder,”

Practical Ways to Protect Brain Health

Several everyday measures can help reduce exposure to environmental stress. During hot weather, staying hydrated, limiting strenuous outdoor activity during peak temperatures and keeping indoor spaces comfortably cool can reduce heat-related strain. Consistent sleep routines are also valuable. A bedroom with suitable ventilation, reduced noise and limited nighttime light can support more restorative sleep. During periods of poor air quality, reducing prolonged outdoor activity near busy roads may help limit exposure.

Climate change may influence brain health through several connected pathways, including extreme heat, disrupted sleep, air pollution and the changing spread of infectious diseases. These pressures could increase the burden of neurological conditions, especially among people who already face health or environmental disadvantages.

Although individual precautions can reduce some risks, wider improvements to housing, urban environments and public health protection are also important. Understanding the connection between environmental conditions and neurological health can help communities prepare for a warmer future while supporting long-term well-being.