Do you keep you ACs on for longer durations? It may have impact on your health negatively.
With the mercury soaring everyday and heatwave alerts being sounded, all one needs is a space that cold. After a long day, we all wish to come to a nice AC room and relax. Once a luxury has now become necessity for many. Do you sit in air-conditioned rooms for long hours? It may impact your health too. While it may bring a temporary relief from heat, it can have long term impact on health from eyes to respiratory problems.
5 Side Effects of AC
- Dry Skin and Eyes: Air-conditioned environments tend to have lower humidity levels, which can lead to dryness and irritation of the skin and eyes. This can cause discomfort, such as itchiness, redness, and a feeling of dryness. To mitigate this, consider using a humidifier in the AC-cooled space or taking breaks from the AC to allow your skin and eyes to rehydrate.
- Respiratory Issues: The cold, dry air produced by air conditioners can irritate the respiratory system, exacerbating conditions like asthma, allergies, and respiratory infections. Prolonged exposure to AC-cooled air can also increase the risk of catching colds or flu. To reduce the impact on respiratory health, ensure the AC filters are clean, adjust the temperature gradually, and consider using an air purifier in the space.
- Increased Risk of Muscle Cramps and Joint Pain: Spending extended periods in air-conditioned environments can lead to a drop in body temperature, which can cause muscle cramps, joint stiffness, and discomfort, especially for individuals with pre-existing conditions. To prevent this, dress appropriately for the AC-cooled environment, stay hydrated, and consider doing some light stretching or movement to maintain blood flow.
- Weakened Immune System: Repeated exposure to the cold, dry air produced by air conditioners can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to illnesses and infections. To maintain a healthy immune system, avoid prolonged exposure to AC, boost your intake of immune-supporting nutrients, and consider taking breaks from the AC to allow your body to adjust.
- Lethargy: Sitting in ac rooms also adds on to the already sluggish summer days.
The use of air conditioning can significantly increase energy consumption, leading to higher utility bills and a larger carbon footprint, contributing to environmental concerns. To reduce the environmental impact, use AC judiciously, maintain the system regularly, and consider energy-efficient options or alternative cooling methods, such as fans or natural ventilation.
It’s important to note that the severity of these side effects can vary depending on individual factors, the intensity and duration of AC use, and the overall health and environmental conditions. Moderation, proper maintenance, and a balanced approach to air conditioning can help mitigate these potential side effects.