Expert Warning: Avoid Continuous Use of Air Conditioner
Title: Expert Advises Caution on Uninterrupted Use of Air Conditioners
Date: July 23, 2023
As temperatures soar above normal during the summer season, the use of air conditioners becomes a necessity in many regions. However, experts are warning about the potential health risks associated with prolonged and uninterrupted use of air conditioners.
According to Memorial Kayseri Hospital Internal Medicine Specialist, Dr. Hatice Karagöz, muscle pain is the most common issue reported by individuals using air conditioners. In addition to muscle pain, air conditioning can also lead to headaches. While air conditioning provides comfort, especially in the summer, it can pose certain problems that are undesirable.
The use of air conditioners often results in muscle pain, particularly in the neck and back area. Headaches are also commonly experienced by individuals in close contact with air conditioning. Furthermore, air conditioning can cause dryness of the skin and eyes. Respiratory problems are also frequently reported, with the most concerning being a type of pneumonia caused by the Legionella bacteria, known as legionnaires. This is primarily observed in public spaces with air conditioning systems and less common in household units.
Dr. Karagöz emphasizes the importance of avoiding direct contact with the air conditioner. She advises cooling the environment before spending time in it and recommends against continuous use of air conditioning. Adequate ventilation is crucial for maintaining a healthy indoor environment, thus it is advised to turn off air conditioners and ventilate the area every 3 hours if possible. Additionally, temperature settings should be adjusted according to the room environment, and excessively low temperatures should be avoided. Temperatures below 22 degrees Celsius are not recommended. Sudden drastic cooling of an extremely hot environment should also be avoided. Regular maintenance of air conditioning units is highly recommended, particularly to prevent Legionnaires’ disease.
Dr. Karagöz also provides advice regarding vehicle air conditioners, highlighting that such systems can cause more problems due to the confined space. Muscle pain is often reported in relation to car air conditioning. It is therefore important to avoid direct airflow to the face and refrain from setting very low temperatures immediately upon entering the vehicle.
In conclusion, while air conditioning offers relief from the summer heat, it is crucial to exercise caution and avoid uninterrupted use. Paying attention to environmental conditions, proper ventilation, and temperature regulation can help minimize the potential health risks associated with air conditioners. Regular maintenance is also essential to prevent the spread of Legionella bacteria.
