Top 6 Side-Effects of Staying in AC for Long Hours

Health Risks Associated with AC

"Air conditioners lower both heat and humidity, providing relief from scorching weather and excessive sweating. However, excessive use can lead to the loss of moisture from the skin, hair, nose, and throat," explains Dr Rajesh Gupta, Senior Pulmonologist at Apollo Hospital, Mumbai.

Dr Gupta adds, "This dryness affects the mucus membranes, reducing their protective ability against bacteria and viruses. Spending substantial time in air-conditioned spaces can result in conditions like colds, coughs, and lower immunity."

Top 6Side Effects of Staying in AC for Long Hours

Dry Skin and Premature Ageing

Spending long hours in an air-conditioned room reduces moisture levels in the skin, leading to dryness, flakiness, and irritation. In severe cases, it can also accelerate ageing as the skin loses its elasticity, causing fine lines and wrinkles to appear earlier than expected.

Dehydration and Fatigue

ACs remove moisture from the environment, which can contribute to dehydration. As a result, individuals may experience increased thirst, lethargy, and fatigue. Experts recommend drinking plenty of water and taking breaks from AC exposure to maintain hydration.

Eye Irritation and Dry Eyes

People with pre-existing dry eye conditions may find their symptoms worsening in air-conditioned spaces. Reduced humidity levels can make the eyes feel itchy, red, and irritated.

Increased Risk of Respiratory Issues

Exposure to cold, dry air can alter the respiratory airway lining, making individuals more susceptible to colds, coughs, and infections. This risk is even higher for people with pre-existing conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and bronchial asthma. Poorly maintained AC units can also circulate dust, pollen, and mould, triggering allergies and respiratory illnesses.

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"Excess usage of air conditioners can harm the skin," says Dr Priya Patel, Head of Dermatology at Max Healthcare, Chennai. "Air conditioning units tend to remove moisture from the indoor environment, indiscriminately leading to a dehumidifying effect, pulling the moisturiser off the skin due to cellular dehydration. This makes skin dry, stretchy, and itchy."

Depleted Natural Oils

Air conditioning reduces the body’s ability to produce sweat, leading to decreased oil production. This makes the skin appear dull and unhealthy. The lack of natural oils can also cause the hair to become dry and brittle, increasing breakage.

Worsening Skin Disorders

People with conditions like eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis may find their symptoms worsening due to dry indoor air. The loss of moisture from the skin can trigger flare-ups and make existing skin issues harder to manage.

Preventive Measures

Health experts recommend taking regular breaks from air-conditioned environments and staying well-hydrated to counter these effects. Additionally, proper maintenance of AC units is crucial.

"The water discharge outlets need to be maintained to ensure there is no dampness in the AC unit or in the walls, which encourages the formation of fungi that negatively impact the lungs," warns Dr Sharma.

As temperatures continue to rise, finding a balance between staying cool and maintaining good health becomes increasingly important for the millions of Indians relying on air conditioning during the hot summer months.

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