Side Effects of Air Conditioning: Many of us rely on air conditioning to ensure a restful night's sleep as humidity rises during monsoon. Even while the chilly air could be a pleasant change of pace, you should think about the potential health risks of sleeping with the air conditioner on. Prolonged exposure to the cold, dry air of an AC unit can lead to various health issues, including respiratory problems, skin dryness, and disrupted sleep patterns.

We got in touch with Dr Shibal Bhartiya, Program Director, Community Outreach and General Wellness, Marengo Asia Hospitals Gurugram who shares how sleeping with AC on at night can affect your health.

1. Quality of Sleep

The temperature of your sleeping environment significantly affects the quality of your sleep. If the room is too cold, it can make you uncomfortable and may prevent you from falling asleep. If you find yourself waking up cold or needing more blankets, consider adjusting the temperature settings or using a fan in addition to the AC to create a more comfortable atmosphere.

One of the most concerning issues with sleeping with the air conditioning on is its impact on your respiratory system. Air conditioners cool and dehumidify the air, which can lead to dry throats and nasal passages. This can exacerbate asthma and allergy symptoms, especially if the AC unit is not properly maintained. Dust and mould buildup in the air filter can be dispersed throughout the room, potentially causing respiratory problems. Regular maintenance and timely air filter replacements are essential for minimizing these risks.

Extended exposure to air conditioning can also affect your skin. The dry air produced by AC systems can lead to dryness, and irritation, and worsen skin conditions such as eczema. To address this, consider using a humidifier to maintain optimal humidity levels in your bedroom. Applying a moisturizing lotion before bed can help keep your skin hydrated.

Your sleeping environment plays a role in your mental health as well. A comfortable and well-regulated sleeping environment can improve mood and cognitive performance. However, discomfort from extreme cold or dry air can lead to insomnia and negatively impact mental health. Maintaining good air quality and a pleasant room temperature can support better mental and overall well-being.

Air conditioning can also affect your hydration levels by drying out the air. Dehydration symptoms such as headaches, dry mouth, and lethargy can occur when the body loses too much moisture due to dry air. To counteract this, ensure your room has a water-based humidifier to add moisture to the air and drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.

Sleeping in a very cold room can impair circulation. Cold temperatures can constrict blood vessels, leading to discomfort or numbness, especially in individuals with conditions like Raynaud's disease. To avoid these issues, keep your room at a comfortable temperature and use appropriate bedding or layers to stay warm without overusing the air conditioner.

How To Use AC Safely?

Dr Shibal shares some advice on how to use your air conditioner efficiently so that comfort and health are balanced:

- Maintain Your AC Unit: To ensure optimal air quality and effective operation, regularly clean or replace the filters.

- Use a Humidifier: This can help alleviate the dry air produced by the air conditioner.

- Adjust Temperature Settings: Set your AC to a comfortable temperature, avoiding extremes that are too hot or too cold.

- Stay Hydrated: To counteract the drying effects of the air conditioner, drink plenty of water.

- Monitor Your Health: Be vigilant for any signs of discomfort or health issues related to air conditioning, and make necessary adjustments.

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