Is Sleeping With Air Conditioning Bad for You? Health Risks You Should Know

While air conditioning provides relief for both body and mind, sleeping with the AC on for extended hours can have health consequences. Following are some of the most common issues:

• Dry Eyes: Air conditioning reduces humidity by drying out warm air, leading to dry, itchy, and irritated eyes.

• Fatigue: Cold temperatures can slow down metabolism and other bodily processes, causing tiredness and drowsiness.

• Dehydration: Dry air can cause moisture loss, leading to dehydration if fluid intake isn’t sufficient.

• Dry or Itchy Skin: Low humidity levels can cause skin to lose moisture, resulting in dryness, flaking, and irritation.

• Headaches: Sudden temperature shifts and cold, dry air may trigger headaches or sinus congestion.

• Respiratory Issues: Cold air can irritate airways, worsening conditions like asthma and allergies.

• Allergies and Asthma: AC systems can harbor allergens like dust, pollen, and mold, which may trigger allergic reactions.

• Noise: Constant humming can disrupt sleep patterns and become a source of irritation.

• Infectious Diseases: Poorly maintained AC systems can spread bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

• Indoor Pollutants: Air conditioners may circulate pollutants like dust and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), leading to respiratory irritation and other health problems.

How Air Conditioning Affects Babies and Newborns:

Dr. Vidya Vimal, a senior pediatrician, says air conditioning is safe for newborns if used properly. Parents should regulate the temperature according to the baby’s body temperature. It's recommended to turn on the AC at least 20 minutes before bringing the baby into the room, and to maintain a temperature of 25–27°C (77–81°F).

Additionally, avoid direct exposure to cold air to prevent coughing or pneumonia. Some infants may be sensitive or allergic to cold temperatures, and it is therefore best to avoid excessive cooling. Frequent cleaning of the AC unit is also essential to prevent allergic reactions caused by dust accumulation.