How Air Conditioning Works and Its Health Effects
Marium Ali
Summer heat drives reliance on air conditioning, but the device not only cools — it can also dry skin and eyes and affect the respiratory system. This article explains how air conditioners work, their health effects, and practical tips.
Summer 2026 is bearing down on the Northern Hemisphere, home to nearly 90% of the world's population. Rising temperatures have made air conditioning a common necessity. While it reduces heat, air conditioning also removes moisture from the air, causing dry skin and irritation. This article explains how air conditioners work, their health effects, and practical tips.
How does air conditioning work?
Air conditioning works by drawing hot, humid air from a room and expelling the heat outside. Specifically, the indoor unit pulls in hot air and passes it over an evaporator coil containing liquid refrigerant. The refrigerant absorbs heat, turns into gas, and cools the air. A fan blows the cool air back into the room. The gaseous refrigerant is then sent to the outdoor unit, where it passes through a condenser coil, releases heat, and turns back into liquid. This cycle repeats continuously.
Modern air conditioning is credited to American engineer Willis Carrier, who invented it in 1902. Window air conditioners appeared in 1931. After World War II, mass production brought air conditioning into homes and offices.
Which regions need air conditioning most?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), heat stress is a leading cause of weather-related deaths, exacerbating cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, mental health conditions, asthma, and increasing the risk of infectious diseases. Areas at the highest risk of heat stress typically have high temperatures, high humidity, and intense sunlight. Heatstroke is a severe form, occurring when body temperature exceeds 40°C.
How does air conditioning affect the body?
- Dry skin and eyes: Air conditioning removes moisture, leading to tight, flaky skin and eye irritation. Use moisturizer and artificial tears.
- Headaches: Prolonged exposure to cold, dry air can cause tension headaches. Stay hydrated and avoid long periods in air-conditioned rooms.
- Dry nose and throat: Low humidity dries mucous membranes, causing pain and nasal congestion. Use saline nasal sprays, lozenges, or a humidifier for relief.
- Respiratory irritation: Unclean air conditioners can spread dust, mold, and bacteria, worsening asthma. Change filters regularly and schedule maintenance.
- Stiff muscles and joint pain: Cold air can cause muscles to contract, especially in the neck, shoulders, and back. Stretch gently, wear extra clothing, and avoid sitting directly under the airflow.
- Sleep: A cool room can promote deeper sleep, but overly cold or dry conditions may disrupt it. Ideal temperature is 16–18°C with a light blanket.
How to stay cool without air conditioning
If you don't have air conditioning or want to save electricity, you can make a DIY cooler using a Styrofoam box, ice, and a fan. This method doesn't address humidity but can temporarily lower the temperature.
