The use of air conditioners (ACs) has significantly increased in our daily lives. They are widely used to enhance comfort in workplaces, homes, and even during travel. Have you noticed that sitting in an air-conditioned room for hours can sometimes cause a headache? Yes, despite the benefits they offer, there have been reports of some negative effects of ACs on human health.
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What chemical is used in Air Conditioners?
A typical air conditioner or cooling system uses a special chemical known as a refrigerant. Freon, a refrigerant gas commonly used in air conditioners, refrigerators, and other appliances, is a type of hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) that is highly toxic. It is both tasteless and odourless. HCFCs deplete the Earth’s protective ozone layer and contribute to climate change.
What are some common health issues caused by excessive use of Air Conditioners?
Excessive use of air conditioners can have many adverse effects on human health.
- Weaker Immunity: The artificial temperature changes created by air conditioning can impair the immune system, making people more susceptible to illnesses. Frequent transitions between cold indoor environments and hot outdoor conditions can lead to more frequent sickness without an obvious cause.
- Persistent Fatigue: Setting air conditioning to very low temperatures can cause internal shivering, which, combined with prolonged work, generates additional heat and results in ongoing fatigue. This is a significant negative impact of air conditioning on health.
- Sinusitis: Studies suggest that spending over four hours in an air-conditioned space increases the risk of developing sinusitis. The cold air can cause the mucous glands to become hardened or dried out, leading to sinus infections.
- Eye Dryness: Air-conditioned environments can lead to dry, irritated eyes. The cold temperature reduces the moisture in the eyes, causing itchiness, tearing, redness, and swelling.
- Viral Infections: Air conditioning can contribute to viral infections due to weakened immunity. The lack of fresh air circulation allows for the continuous spread of bacteria and viruses, which can cause colds and flu among individuals.
- Breathing Issues: Poor maintenance of air conditioners, such as infrequent cleaning and filter changes, can lead to the growth of bacteria and fungi in the system. This can result in airborne microorganisms causing respiratory problems and serious infections like pneumonia and Legionnaires disease.
- Skin Dryness: Exposure to cold air from air conditioners can dry out the skin, leading to fine lines, rough texture, and dullness. The cold air affects the skin cells and contributes to dryness.
- Allergies: Inadequate cleaning of air conditioners can result in dust, bacteria, and mould accumulation in the ducts. This contaminated air can cause skin irritations, redness, itchiness, and allergies.
Sick Building Syndrome
Sick Building Syndrome refers to a collection of nonspecific symptoms experienced by individuals living or working in modern air-conditioned buildings. These symptoms can include eye-related issues such as dryness, itching, strain, and tiredness; allergic reactions like nasal congestion, mucous membrane irritation, runny nose, difficulty breathing, and a dry throat; as well as general and neurological symptoms such as headaches, lethargy, and fatigue.
Thermal regulation stress
In air-conditioned rooms, temperature, humidity, and air movement are kept consistent. As a result, spending extended periods in such environments can cause stress in thermal regulation. This is due to disruptions in thermal adaptation and decreased tolerance to heat when frequently transitioning between indoor and outdoor conditions.
Air Conditioner and Headache
Sitting continuously in an air-conditioned room for hours might cause a headache. This can be because of:
- Dehydration: Air conditioners reduce humidity, which can increase dehydration risks, especially in summer. Dehydration may lead to headaches due to fluid loss, causing the brain to temporarily contract. To prevent this, drink enough water—2.7 litres for women, 3.7 litres for men—as suggested by the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine.
- Pollutants on AC: Mould and pollutants thrive on damp air conditioner coils, spreading allergens throughout your home. This can trigger severe headaches, especially in those allergic to dust, and may lead to long-term health issues if not addressed. Regular maintenance is crucial to prevent mould growth and protect your well-being.
- Cold air makes your blood vessels contract: Keeping your home too cool can cause blood vessels in your head to contract, leading to headaches. Maintaining a comfortable temperature may help alleviate this issue.
Air Conditioner and Lung disease
A study comparing individuals who use air conditioners to those who do not find that lung function tests—such as FVC, FEV1, PEFR, and MVV—were significantly lower in AC users. This means that people who use air conditioners regularly might have poorer lung function compared to those who don’t.
Air Conditioner and Pneumonia
Legionnaires’ disease, a form of pneumonia caused by the Legionella pneumophila bacteria, is a widely discussed illness that can spread through contaminated water in air conditioning systems.
In conclusion, Air conditioners impact more than just temperature; they significantly affect the air quality we breathe and human health. AC users are more likely to experience various health problems.
Focus keywords: AC, Air conditioners, Headache
Written by Liya Sunny
Source:
Impact of Air Conditioners on Sick Building Syndrome, Sickness Absenteeism, and Lung Functions
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