Health effects of excessive use of AC

Heat wave continues across the country. People are living in offices, cars and houses with AC all day long. Many people spend more than 20 hours in artificial coolness. Although it provides relief from the heat, continuous use of AC can have negative effects on health. Scientific studies have shown that people living in AC rooms are more likely to suffer from respiratory diseases and sick building syndrome. Lung experts believe that wrong use of AC can be harmful to health.

Danger of bacteria and fungus

Moisture accumulates on the cooling coils of AC. If filters and drainage are not cleaned, this moisture becomes an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, mold and fungus. According to studies, Legionella bacteria thrive in AC water and can reach the lungs through the air and cause severe pneumonia like Legionnaires’ disease. Mold spores released from dirty vents cause allergies, sinus and persistent cough.

Skin and dehydration problems

AC absorbs moisture from the air, due to which the air in the room becomes very dry. This causes moisture in the eyes to dry up and can lead to dry eye syndrome. Contact lens wearers face more problems. Natural oil is removed from the skin, which increases problems like itching, dryness and eczema. Prolonged exposure to low humidity also reduces the skin’s ability to repair itself.

Risk of respiratory problems and asthma

In the AC room, the air keeps rotating again and again, due to which fresh air does not come. If the filter is not cleaned within 15-30 days, dust, pollen and mold can enter the body through breathing. According to Dr. Sandeep Nair, this can cause asthma attack, chronic rhinitis and inflammation in the respiratory tract. Cold air directly affects the respiratory tract and causes bronchospasm.

risk of thermal shock

Going from 45 degree heat to a room with 18 degree AC is a big shock for the body. This sudden temperature change causes the blood vessels to constrict and the inner lining of the nose becomes weak. This results in increased viral infections, colds and muscle stiffness. Frequent temperature changes cause additional stress on the body.

fatigue and mental problems

Staying in AC for a long time causes fatigue, headache and heaviness. The level of carbon dioxide increases in a closed room, which reduces concentration and makes the mind dull. Studies have found that people feel more tired in AC environments.