As India continues to face a severe heatwave, many people are spending most of their time indoors with the air conditioner running for long hours. The heat has been especially difficult in Delhi, where residents are struggling with extreme temperatures. In several parts of the country, the mercury has crossed 45 degrees Celsius, making air conditioning a daily necessity. But while ACs provide relief from the heat, doctors warn that overuse or poor maintenance can lead to health issues. “ACs are helpful in extreme heat, but long exposure and poor maintenance can affect your health, especially if you have breathing issues or sensitive skin,” says Dr. R S Mishra, Principal Director, Internal Medicine, Fortis Escorts, New Delhi.

Common health problems due to overuse of AC

1. Dry skin and eyes

ACs remove moisture from the air, which can leave your skin dry and itchy. Your eyes may also feel irritated or red. “Low humidity caused by ACs often leads to dry skin and eyes. People with sensitive skin are more likely to face this,” explains Dr. Mishra.

2. Breathing issues

If your AC isn’t cleaned often, it may spread dust, mould, or allergens in the room. This can make breathing difficult for people with asthma or allergies.

“Unclean AC filters can trigger sneezing, coughing, or even asthma attacks in some people,” Dr. Mishra warns.

3. Dry nose and throat

Spending too much time in air-conditioned rooms can dry out your nose and throat, making it harder for your body to fight germs.

“When the nose and throat get dry, they can’t trap bacteria and viruses properly. This makes you fall sick more often,” he says.

4. Infections from dirty ACs

If not cleaned regularly, ACs can become home to bacteria and viruses. These can spread through the air and cause infections.

5. Headaches and tiredness

Going from the hot outdoors to a cold room quickly can cause headaches. Sitting in cold rooms for too long can also make you feel tired.

“Many people complain of feeling sleepy or getting headaches after spending long hours in AC. Poor ventilation adds to this problem,” Dr. Mishra adds.

Tips to use AC the right way

Dr Mishra suggests some simple tips to enjoy AC safely:

• Set the AC at a moderate temperature (around 24–26 degrees Celsius). Avoid making the room too cold.
• Use a humidifier or keep a bowl of water in the room to prevent dryness.
• Clean your AC filters regularly to stop dust and germs from spreading.
• Take short breaks and step out of the AC room once in a while.
• Ensure proper ventilation so fresh air can circulate.

“It’s important to use AC wisely. We all need comfort in summer, but not at the cost of our health,” says Dr. Mishra.

As heatwave warnings continue across India, it’s clear that ACs are essential. But you must use it with proper care to enjoy it without risking your health.