Are air conditioners making you sick? Know the myths vs. fact

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When the mercury is shooting up, an air conditioner can become your everyday companion. But many of us even go to the extent of blaming AC for cold, sore throat and what not.

So, can air conditioners make us sick? The truth is not as simple as yes or no.

Myth: AC causes common cold

The truth is: Common cold and other viral diseases like flu or influenza are not triggered by cold air. The air conditioners themselves cannot make you catch a cold.

However, staying in enclosed and air conditioned spaces increases the exposure of a person to such a virus, especially if there’s someone suffering from a cold nearby.

Myth: AC can trigger allergies

The truth is: When maintained well, air conditioners can actually help in reducing the allergens. They filter out the dust and pollen particles.

However, if the filters of the AC become dirty, they may even blow out the dust particles, spores, and other allergens into the room.

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Myth: AC can cause dry body

The truth is: Air conditioners reduce the moisture and thus, make our skin, eyes, nose and throat feel dry. Overexposure to AC may also result in itching or dehydration.

Myth: It’s unhealthy to sleep with AC

The truth is: Generally, sleeping in air conditioned room is healthy at comfortable temperatures. But if set to extremely low temperatures, it can make you feel stiff and may result in dryness.

Tips for a healthy AC use Clean and change the filters periodically Ensure AC temperature setting between 24-26C Use a humidifier to combat dryness Keep your body hydrated Regularly maintain and clean your AC Make sure there is good ventilation in the room.

Along with very low AC temperatures and too much dry indoor air, it’s responsible for creating a health issue.

So, ensure proper cleaning and set appropriate temperature to enjoy cool yet healthy indoor air.

Also read: Can Stress Cause Hair Loss? Here Is Why You Might Be Facing Hair Loss

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