Air conditioning is something that many people feel they can’t live without. While your AC is great at keeping your home cool during the hot summer months, it can also potentially cause or worsen various ailments. The primary reason for this is that air conditioning circulates any allergens, contaminants, and pollutants present in the building throughout the entire home every time it runs. However, many people also have negative reactions to the dry air that ACs produce. AC sickness is quite common, and here are some of the signs of it you should look out for.

Breathing or Respiratory Problems

If you notice that you frequently have breathing or respiratory problems whenever your AC is running, this indicates that your AC is spreading dust and other airborne particles throughout your home. Most commonly this issue is caused by things like pet dander, mold spores, dust mites, and other common household allergens. The best way to avoid this problem is to make sure you change your air filter regularly and also have your AC system professionally inspected and cleaned every year. Regular inspections are also important as they allow you to know when you need AC repair. If you suspect your air conditioner is causing these issues, don’t hesitate in getting it checked out.

Red or Irritated Eyes

Air conditioners are designed to absorb both heat and moisture from the air. When your AC is running constantly, this can create an extremely dry environment that can actually cause your tears to evaporate and your eyes to become dry and irritated. Make sure to use a humidifier to help replace moisture in the air.

Allergy Symptoms

As with other respiratory issues, experiencing allergy symptoms when your AC is running is likely due to the system circulating various allergens throughout your home. Having your air ducts cleaned every few years can help to minimize these allergens, but it is also important that you regularly clean your home as this will also limit the amount of allergens present.

Dry or Itchy Skin

The dry environment created by air conditioning can also impact your skin. Specifically, it can leave you with dry, itchy or flaky skin. This problem is usually much worse if you sit with the AC blowing directly on you. Using a moisturizer is a great option to counter balance this issue.

Dizziness and Headaches

Some people also report frequently feeling dizzy or getting headaches after sitting in an air-conditioned room. This problem could be a sign that your AC is allowing harmful chemicals known as VOCs (volatile organic compounds) to circulate, and the only real way to overcome this issue is with an air purification system. That being said, the headaches and dizziness can also result from dehydration caused by the lack of humidity in the air. This is why it is especially important to drink plenty of water whenever your AC is on.

It is important to understand that it is usually not your AC itself that is causing you to experience any of these issues. Instead, AC sickness is more of a result of the environment created by the AC or the presence of certain allergens and pollutants in your home. If you experience any of these issues, talk to an air conditioner expert to narrow down what exactly might be causing your symptoms.