Sitting in an AC for a long time causes heaviness and headaches. Let us tell you the reasons behind this and easy prevention methods, so that, along with coolness, health is also maintained.

Why does staying in AC cause headache?

In today's modern age, the use of air conditioners (ACs) to beat the heat has become commonplace. ACs are used everywhere, from homes to offices to malls to vehicles. If you're spending most of your time in an air conditioner to escape the heat, you should be cautious, as it has many side effects. It can make you sick. According to health websites, spending too much time in an air conditioner increases the risk of developing sick building syndrome.

The cool air of an AC can be soothing, but it can also cause discomfort, often leading to symptoms like headaches, sore throats, colds, and dry skin after sitting in an air-conditioned room. Constant exposure to dry, cold air can cause shortness of breath, sinus problems, and a feeling of heaviness due to changes in oxygen flow to the brain. It's common to experience a heavy head or headaches after prolonged exposure to an AC unit. Let's explore why this happens.

• Dehydration: ACs absorb moisture from the room, making the air very dry. This dry air draws moisture from the body, leading to dehydration and headaches.


• Constriction of blood vessels: The narrowing of blood vessels, also known as vasoconstriction, occurs when the body is exposed to very cold air and constricts blood vessels to keep itself warm, which increases tension in the head and brain and causes headaches.


• Sinus problems: Cold and dry air dries out the mucus membranes in the nose and throat, which can cause swelling or congestion in the sinuses. This can also lead to headaches.


• Decreased oxygen levels and freshness: Due to this, low temperature and staying in a closed room cause muscle stiffness and fatigue, which leads to a feeling of heaviness in the head.

Don't set the AC temperature too low. Keep it around 24-26°C. It's also important to drink water frequently while in an AC. Furthermore, avoid sitting in the AC for hours at a stretch. Get outside frequently, and it's also important to clean the AC's air filter regularly.