The fact that the air temperature is above the seasonal normals has made the use of air conditioning indispensable. However, the misuse of air conditioners brings with it many problems. Stating that upper respiratory tract and lung diseases occur in people exposed to cold and dry air for a long time, Istanbul Gelisim University (IGU), Chest Diseases Specialist Asst. Prof. Dr. Aygün Gür stated that the most common respiratory diseases due to the use of air conditioners are sinusitis and bronchitis.
Beware of air conditioner disease!
In addition to respiratory diseases caused by the use of air conditioners, there are also various microorganisms and fungi that are transmitted to humans through air conditioners. Chest Diseases Specialist Asst. Prof. Dr. Aygün Gür, "People with lung diseases such as air conditioning, COPD, and asthma can easily get infected and their diseases exacerbate. ‘Legionnaires‘ disease, popularly known as air conditioning disease, is a type of lung infection that manifests itself with symptoms such as high fever, cough and shortness of breath.”
"Indoor and outdoor temperature difference must not exceed 8-10 degrees"
When used correctly, air conditioners provide people with healthy and comfortable environments, while in allergic people, the cold air blown by the air conditioner and the dust it spreads to the environment can trigger severe cough and asthma attacks. Stating that some points should be considered while using the air conditioner, Asst. Prof. Dr. Gür: "Air conditioners should be periodically maintained and their filters should be cleaned at frequent intervals. The optimum temperature is 24-25 degrees, and one of the important details is that the indoor and outdoor temperature difference must not exceed 8-10 degrees and the humidity should be 40-50%. Rapid cooling of the environment may lead to complaints such as cough and shortness of breath. Therefore, the environment should be cooled slowly. While the air conditioner is working, the environment should be ventilated by opening the windows occasionally and the air blown by the air conditioner should not be exposed directly."
Adding that the use of air conditioning has some risks for asthmatic and allergic patients, Chest Diseases Specialist Asst. Prof. Dr. Aygün Gür: "The risks of high temperature and humidity cannot be ignored. Therefore, these patients can use air conditioners consciously and appropriately by paying attention to the specified rules."