As the temperature rises, air conditioning becomes mandatory in most parts of the world. However, using air conditioners could pose several health risks that we are not aware of. Here is what you need to know about the risks of air conditioner use:.

1. Respiratory Problems

One of the most common side effects of using air conditioners is the risk of respiratory problems.

The cool air can cause dryness in your respiratory tract, leading to a sore throat, coughing, and even exacerbating asthma and other respiratory conditions. Additionally, if the air conditioner is not clean and has not been maintained properly, it could spread bacteria, fungi, and pollutants, further increasing the risk of respiratory issues.

2. Skin Irritation

Cool air from the air conditioner can make your skin dry and rough, which can eventually lead to skin irritation and rashes. If your skin is already prone to eczema or psoriasis, using an air conditioner may worsen symptoms and cause discomfort.

3. Headaches

Using an air conditioner could lead to headaches and migraines in some individuals. The cold and dry air could irritate the nasal passages, causing the blood vessels in our head to constrict, leading to headaches.

If you work in an office with air conditioning, ensure that the temperature and humidity levels are within the recommended range to prevent headaches.

4. Dehydration

Air conditioners can also cause dehydration. It’s easy to lose track of time when we’re working in an air-conditioned room, and we could forget to drink water.

The dry air in the room can cause loss of fluids from our body, leading to dehydration. Symptoms of dehydration include dry mouth, dizziness, and fatigue. Make sure to drink plenty of fluids, especially during the summer months, and turn off the air conditioner when possible to prevent dehydration.

5. Eye Irritation

The cold air emitted by air conditioners can cause dryness in the eyes, leading to eye irritation and discomfort. In some cases, the dryness can also lead to blurred vision and eye fatigue.

If you work in an office with air conditioning, try using a humidifier in the room to add moisture and prevent eye irritation.

6. Increased Risk of Infections

As the air conditioner circulates the air inside the room, it could also circulate bacteria and viruses, increasing the risk of infections. If someone in the room is sick, the air conditioner could spread the infection to others in the same room.

To prevent the spread of infections, make sure to clean and maintain your air conditioner regularly.

7. Noise Pollution

Sometimes, air conditioners can be quite loud, especially if they’re old and have not been well-maintained. The constant noise could disrupt your sleep, leading to sleep disturbances and fatigue.

If your air conditioner is making too much noise, consider replacing it with a new model or getting it serviced.

8. Climate Change

Air conditioners also contribute to climate change as they consume a significant amount of energy. The greenhouse gases emitted by air conditioners contribute to global warming and climate deterioration.

To reduce the impact of air conditioners on the environment, try using alternative methods to cool your home or workplace, such as ceiling fans or natural ventilation.

9. Higher Energy Bills

Air conditioners consume a lot of energy to function, resulting in increased energy bills during the summer months.

If you’re worried about your energy bill, try using your air conditioner only when necessary and set the temperature to a reasonable level.

10. Maintenance Costs

Finally, air conditioners can be costly to maintain. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to prevent the risks associated with air conditioner use. If you neglect maintenance, your air conditioner could break down, resulting in costly repairs.

Now that you know the risks of air conditioner use, you can take the necessary precautions to stay safe and healthy. Regular maintenance, proper use, and alternative cooling methods could help you avoid the side effects of air conditioner use.