8 unpleasant effects of air conditioning you might not have known about

Svetlana Perez

certified clinical geneticist, nutritionist, expert of UniProf Academy of Physicians

How can air conditioners be harmful?

With the onset of hot days in many homes and offices, the air conditioner becomes a great ally and savior. Of course, air conditioners bring comfort to our life. Both in summer and winter, the ability to regulate the temperature of the surrounding space greatly simplifies life and the relationship with the outside environment.

However, improper use of air conditioner and lack of its timely and proper maintenance can lead to serious health problems. Let’s tell you exactly what they are.

Dehydration

Although it may sound strange, the main consequence of using an air conditioner is dehydration. With air conditioning, it seems like we sweat less. But the truth is that our lungs lose a significant amount of water with each exhalation, and we don’t get as thirsty as we would when the temperature rises, so we are less likely to replenish our water balance.

The elderly have an even lower sense of thirst and in many cases begin to suffer much earlier than the younger generation. That’s why it’s important to drink plenty of water while using your air conditioner.

Throat and Nose Problems

Common problems that arise due to air conditioner use are the development or aggravation of rhinitis, pharyngitis and laryngitis.

No matter how much we drink, water will not be in contact with the mucous membranes of the nasopharynx all the time, and the risk of drying the throat, nose, and eyes increases many times over when using an air conditioner. It is important not to abuse the air conditioner, using it when it is really necessary, not constantly. In apartments, if possible, it is worth cooling the room in advance, not at the moment when someone is there.

Allergy aggravation

Poorly maintained air conditioner filters cause air to circulate through pathways where germs or allergens can accumulate. These, in turn, can aggravate or provoke the development of diseases such as:

  • certain types of allergies;
  • reactions to bacteria, fungi, viruses, which can accumulate in the filters of the appliance and then circulate in the air.

It is very important to change filters in time (usually it is indicated in the instruction manual) and to monitor the quality and serviceability of the air conditioner.

Did you know that in addition to ordinary allergies, there is also sun allergy? What it is and how to protect yourself from it, told in our article.

Cramps

Sometimes excessive and direct cold in certain areas of the body can contribute to reflexive muscle contractions. In general, shivering is an unconscious defense of the body, which helps to produce heat when we feel cold.

Therefore, it is important to avoid direct exposure of areas of the body to cold and regulate a certain temperature. Specialists recommend not to reduce the temperature below +24…+25ºC.

Overcooling

Prolonged cold causes global neurological slowing down. You want to sleep, the body is preparing for rest. This is especially easy to detect in children: the younger, the more noticeable. Since they show the effects of lowering the temperature faster and more vividly, as well as dehydration.

It is desirable not to lower the temperature of the air conditioner lower than eight degrees compared to the street and other rooms. In addition, it is important to keep the skin well hydrated, drink more water, and monitor the humidity level in the room.

Skin irritation

Sweating itself is a defense mechanism against heat. With excessive use of air conditioning, this process is disrupted, which can lead to skin reactions such as irritation and dermatitis. It is important not to forget about moisturizing creams, especially if the skin is prone to dryness.

Read more about how to properly care for the skin in the summer, told in the material.

Dry eyes

Dry eyes usually occur because the eyes are also exposed to the dry air. This is especially noticeable on people who wear lenses – they are more susceptible than others to drying of the mucous membranes of the eyes.

When using an air conditioner and the appearance of such symptoms, it is important to consult with your doctor. He will help identify the cause and select moisturizing drops.

Headaches

If the room is constantly cool and the humidity level is low, migraine attacks and headaches may increase. Since such an environment is in itself stressful to the body.

Cold helps to maintain tension, while heat helps to reduce it. If we abruptly change the environment, temperature and humidity, the body does not always have time to adapt. In such cases, dizziness and even fainting are not uncommon. This is especially pronounced in children and older people.

What to remember when using conditioner

  • Maintain water balance: drink regularly, even if you don’t feel like it.
  • Do not set the air conditioner below +24…+25ºC.
  • Do not expose yourself to prolonged cold and avoid sudden changes in temperature.
  • Avoid direct exposure to the air conditioner: if possible, do not turn it on when you are in the room.
  • Keep the unit’s filters clean.
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