In the constant search for comfort during summer nights, many of us turn to air conditioning as an ally to combat high temperatures. However, its use at night generates a debate about its possible health effects.
Is it really harmful to sleep with the air conditioning on?
We talk about the benefits and risks of this practice, as well as providing some tips for using air conditioning safely and effectively at night.
Sleeping with air conditioning: what are the implications?
The answer to this question is: it depends. If you sleep with the air conditioning on all night at a low temperature, you could get sick. According to the Spanish Society of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery (SEORL), the use of air conditioning can increase throat problems in the summer.
Along the same lines, the Spanish Society of Pulmonology and Thoracic Surgery points out that up to 20% of the symptoms of catarrh, laryngitis, pharyngitis or bronchial processes that appear in the summer are due to the improper use of air conditioning.
However, this is not always the case. It depends on several factors, such as the temperature, the angle at which the device expels the air and whether it directly affects the person sleeping or the surface of the room.
What happens if I sleep with the air conditioning on?
Sleeping all night with the air conditioning on can bring with it several risks:
Respiratory problems: excessive use of air conditioning can dry out the air, causing irritation of the airways and eyes. People with pre-existing respiratory problems, such as asthma or allergies, may experience a worsening of their symptoms.
Muscle pain and stiffness: sleeping in a room that is too cold can cause muscle stiffness and pain upon waking. Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can cause muscle tension and cramps, especially in people with predisposed health conditions.
Colds and other illnesses: sudden changes in temperature when entering and leaving an air-conditioned room can weaken the immune system and increase susceptibility to colds and other illnesses. In addition, if the air conditioning filter is not cleaned regularly, it can become a source of bacteria, viruses and fungi, which can become a more serious problem.
Dehydration and headache: having the air conditioning on all night also increases the risk of dehydration, as the cold can delay or prevent the sensation of thirst. In addition, it dries out the environment, which favors this condition. The most common symptoms of dehydration are: headache, dry skin and lips, and migraines.
How to make good use of the air conditioning to sleep?
There are a series of tips and practices that maximize the benefits of sleeping with the air conditioning on and reduce its risks:
What is the ideal temperature to sleep with the air conditioning on? It is recommended to set the air conditioning to a moderate temperature. The ideal is between 24 and 26 degrees; below 23 degrees, the risk of getting sick increases. Avoiding very low temperatures can prevent health problems related to the cold.
Use the timer function. Many air conditioning units have a timer function or 'night mode' that allows you to schedule automatic shutdown after a few hours. This can be helpful in cooling the room before bed and during the first few hours of sleep and turning it off for the rest of the night.
Keep the filter clean. It is essential to clean or replace the air conditioning filter regularly to ensure clean airflow and prevent the build-up of dust, bacteria and mold that can cause health problems.
Stay adequately hydrated. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day and keeping a glass of water near your bed can help combat dryness caused by air conditioning.
Use humidifiers. If your air conditioning is drying out your room, consider using a humidifier to help maintain an adequate level of humidity and prevent airway irritation.
Avoid direct airflow. The airflow out of an air conditioning unit is much lower than the room temperature. If a person is exposed to direct air for too long, they are more likely to experience negative effects such as muscle cramps and pain. To avoid this, it is advisable to avoid placing yourself directly in the path of the air.
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Source: Idealista
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