Can You Get Cough From Air Conditioning?

Can You Get Cough From Air Conditioning? If you’ve ever turned on your air conditioning and noticed yourself coughing and sneezing, you may have questions. Are you allergic to your air conditioner? The short answer to this question is no.

However, you may be allergic to the quality of air that’s circulating through your unit. When it turns on, allergens in the air are in motion, causing your symptoms.

Air Conditioning Sickness

While air conditioning on its own won’t make you sick, it can circulate contaminants that are the cause of your problems. Depending on your unit, it may even be home to the problem. You may notice that you start feeling sick when turning on the air conditioning. 

Air conditioning units can even spread bacteria and viruses. This is especially common in large buildings that may have large ventilation systems. You may be experiencing the common symptoms of air contamination:

• sneezing
• coughing
• dizziness
• fever
• watery eyes

People who have respiratory problems may be more susceptible to the effects of these contaminants.

Pollen

A pollen allergy is one of the most common. This is a substance which comes from plants and is also found in buildings. Pollen can enter through doors and windows but is often tracked in on shoes and clothes.

These particles are fairly large and will settle on surfaces in homes and apartments. They can be disturbed when air is flowing and remain in the air for a few hours. Keeping the doors and windows closed is the best way to prevent their entrance.

Dust Mites

Dust mites are common in any home. These pests feed on human skin and are found in homes or other buildings. They can actually breed inside air conditioners. Since they are most likely to reproduce in conditions that are warm and damp, maintaining an indoor humidity level of 40-50% is the best way to prevent dust mites.

Pet Dander

Many people have a pet dander allergy. It may occur at any time in life, so can develop over time as well. Pet dander is light and can easily be airborne. The air conditioning unit easily circulates dander which may then lead to allergy symptoms.

Dander can be minimized by washing pets regularly. If this is not effective, consider medications such as allergy shots.

Mold and Mildew

The air conditioning unit can be a breeding ground for mold and mildew. These organisms grow well in a damp environment. Your AC unit may have a web cooling coil or a condensate pan. The presence of moisture in the unit can then lead to mold and mildew growth.

Although you may not realize it, both mold and mildew release toxins that can cause allergic reactions or disease. Make sure to have your AC unit serviced on a regular basis. If mold and mildew are present, the unit may need to be repaired or replaced.

Bacteria and Viruses

Both people and animals can carry bacteria or viruses into the home. They can also enter through soil or plants. Certain types of these elements may travel through the air. Although not causing the problem, the air conditioner can circulate them which will then lead to illness.

The air conditioning unit can circulate the flu, chickenpox, measles, and other diseases.

Pollution

Air pollution is commonly thought of as an outside problem but it’s present inside as well. This may lead to coughing, asthma exacerbation, and poor lung function. Air pollution is especially a concern if anyone in the home has respiratory problems.

An air purifier or purifying plants present in the home are a great way to resolve this concern.

Can You Get Cough From Air Conditioning? – Conclusion

Although you now know how pollutants can affect your home, how do you get rid of them? Replacing air filters on a regular basis is optimal. Controlling the humidity and air quality with a purifier can also help in homes with poor air quality.

Keeping the unit safe by cleaning it and having regular maintenance will keep pollutants at bay. Most problems that come from air conditioning are a result of airborne contaminants.

Taking proper care of your unit with regular maintenance and upkeep will minimize problems. However, for more severe symptoms, be sure to reach out to your doctor. We hoped you enjoyed reading the article – “Can You Get Cough From Air Conditioning?”