Sunday 12/April/2026 – 07:07 AM
Health experts warned of harm Air conditioners AirAir conditioners cause symptoms similar to summer colds, such as dry throat and cough, as a result of low humidity and poor indoor air quality, and not due to infection, as setting the air conditioner to a very low temperature exacerbates respiratory symptoms, and discomfort can be prevented by maintaining the temperature between 24 and 26 degrees Celsius, avoiding direct air flow, drinking sufficient amounts of water, and cleaning the filters.
Can air conditioners cause illness?
According to what was published in Times Now, as temperatures rise, the use of air conditioners becomes necessary for comfort. However, many people report symptoms such as sore throat, dry cough and throat irritation after prolonged use of the air conditioner, which is often known as the summer cold. While these symptoms may resemble those of an infection, experts say that they are usually caused by changes in indoor air quality and low humidity, not a virus. Most of these illnesses are caused by the effect of the air conditioner on the quality of indoor air, as well as the amount of humidity in it.
What are the risks of prolonged exposure to air conditioners?
Prolonged exposure to air conditioning devices leads to respiratory problems, dry skin, headaches, and increased fatigue. It may also exacerbate conditions such as asthma and allergies due to dry air and poor ventilation. In addition, staying in a cold environment for a long period of time causes muscle stiffness and joint pain, especially in people who are sensitive to temperature changes. Regular rest periods and regular maintenance of the air conditioning device can help mitigate these risks.
Air conditioners work by removing heat and moisture from indoor air. As this space cools, it creates a dry environment, which may irritate the respiratory system. This dryness affects the mucous membranes in the nose and throat, leading to feelings of discomfort, such as:
- Dry throat
- Persistent cough
- Throat irritation
- Difficulty breathing in sensitive individuals
