Air Conditioning-Related Illness

“Heat exhaustion (일사병, 日射病)” and “Heat stroke (열사병, 熱射病)” used to be common summer ailments, but they are rarely seen today. In contrast, the number of people suffering from “Air conditioner sickness (냉방병, 冷房病)” has been on the rise. This marks a shift from nature-induced illnesses to those brought on by artificial environments, highlighting a paradox where scientific progress turns nature on its head.

Caused by contamination of the air conditioner coolant or differences in external temperature

The human body undergoes an acclimatization process to adapt to increasing ambient temperatures, typically requiring approximately one to two weeks. Upon completion of this period, physiological homeostasis is re-established to suit the new thermal environment. However, if the autonomic nervous system experiences excessive strain during this adjustment phase, patients may present with symptoms including fatigue, gastrointestinal disturbances, and headaches. These manifestations are collectively referred to as air conditioning-related syndrome or air conditioning sickness.

In fact, this syndrome has no clear medical definition and is considered a multifactorial condition. One notable cause identified recently is the contamination of air conditioner coolant with bacteria, which can be circulated through the system and infect building occupants, leading to illnesses such as Pontiac fever and Legionnaires’ disease.

Secondly, when the air conditioner is set to a temperature much lower than the hot outdoor environment, the body struggles to adapt to the drastic temperature difference. This is primarily due to exhaustion of the autonomic nervous system.

Lastly, air conditioning sickness can also manifest as a form of “building-related syndrome.” This condition often arises when proper ventilation is not maintained in air-conditioned spaces. Neglecting regular air conditioner cleaning or smoking indoors, which introduces additional pollutants, can exacerbate the situation and lead to more severe health problems. As air conditioning becomes increasingly essential in modern buildings, awareness and proper maintenance are key to preventing these health issues.

Experience headaches or cold-like symptoms.

Recently, many people were visiting hospitals complaining of symptoms such as a heavy head, dizziness, mild abdominal pain, and general fatigue. These are typical symptoms of air-conditioning sickness, which occurs when the body cannot adapt to the temperature difference between the cold indoors and the hot outdoors. Continuous exposure to the cold and dry air of the air conditioner can cause headaches and dizziness. You may become averse to the cold, feel stiff, have joint and shoulder pain, and have cold symptoms such as a runny nose and cough.

When the blood vessels in the skin constrict and blood circulation is not smooth, sweating decreases, and the face and limbs may swell. In the case of women, they may become sensitive to extreme cold, which can lead to irregular menstruation. In Asian medicine, these symptoms are called yin-fever disease (음증상서병, 陰症傷暑病), and are considered one of the diseases caused by exposure to heat.

Air conditioning-related illness causes symptoms such as constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal pain due to decreased gastrointestinal motility. Exposure to cold air can cause muscle contraction, which can lead to imbalances and lower back pain. Meanwhile, the body constantly generates heat to compensate for the cold, which leads to fatigue and decreased energy. This often leads to decreased concentration and work performance.

Humidity is also a major cause of air conditioner syndrome. When the air conditioner lowers the temperature, indoor moisture condenses, lowering the humidity. The average humidity in summer is about 60-70%, but when the air conditioner is running for more than an hour, the indoor humidity can drop to 30-40%. This is much lower than the normal level of 55%. This dryness irritates the respiratory mucosa, causing sore throats and decreased immunity, making you more susceptible to colds, stuffy noses, and other respiratory diseases.

People who are more vulnerable to air-conditioning sickness include drivers who drive for long periods of time in air-conditioned vehicles, housewives, children, and the elderly. In particular, patients, thin women, and those who suffer from chronic fatigue are more vulnerable to air-conditioning sickness because their immune systems are weakened and they are more susceptible to air-conditioning-related diseases. Therefore, they are also more at risk for secondary infections. In particular, these symptoms tend to appear more frequently in women than in men.

Diagnosis can be made using infrared thermography, which captures the body’s heat patterns.

Air conditioning sickness can be diagnosed using Digital Infrared Thermographic Imaging (DITI), which allows for the assessment of overall circulatory status as well as the location and severity of cold sensitivity in the body.

Treatment typically involves a combination of therapies aimed at regulating systemic circulation, autonomic nervous system function, and hormonal balance. These may include medications, acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping therapy, infrared therapy, full-body hydrotherapy massage (Aqua-PT), and electrical stimulation.

Most importantly, it is essential to differentiate between excess and deficiency patterns based on the patient’s overall condition, reported symptoms, and the specific areas and degree of cold sensation to provide an appropriate and personalized treatment plan.

To avoid overexposure to cold air, indoor temperatures should be maintained above 77 degrees.

To prevent air conditioning sickness, it is advisable to keep the indoor temperature from dropping below 77°F (25°C) and to limit prolonged exposure to cold air. Maintaining a temperature difference of no more than 5 to 8 degrees Celsius between the indoors and outdoors helps the body adapt more comfortably. Ventilating the room by opening windows every hour is also recommended to circulate fresh air.

Wearing lightweight long-sleeved clothing can help shield the body from direct exposure to cold air, and stepping outside periodically for fresh air and light exercise can further aid circulation and prevent symptoms. Smoking should be avoided in air-conditioned spaces, as it increases the level of indoor pollutants. If using an air conditioner or fan while sleeping, be sure to set a timer to prevent the room temperature from falling below 77°F during the night.

To stay protected during sleep, it is important to cover the abdomen with a blanket to maintain warmth. Since low indoor humidity increases the risk of catching a cold, attention should be paid to preventing excessive dryness in the room. Air conditioner filters should be cleaned approximately once every two weeks, as dust buildup not only reduces cooling efficiency but also provides a breeding ground for bacteria.

Avoiding alcohol and overexertion is essential, as is maintaining regular meals, especially breakfast. It is recommended to consume plenty of vitamin-rich fruits and to stay well-hydrated by drinking warm water or tea throughout the workday. Regular exercise and a consistent daily routine help regulate the autonomic nervous system, which plays a key role in preventing air conditioning-related illnesses.

Traditional herbal remedies such as Yukhwa-tang (육화탕, Liu He Tang六和湯), Gwakhyangjeonggi-san (곽향정기산, Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San, 藿香正氣散), and Cheongseoikgi-tang (청서익기탕, Qing Shu Yi Qi Tang, 淸暑益氣湯) have been found effective in treating air conditioning sickness.

• Yukhwa-tang is traditionally used to regulate the balance between internal cold and heat, helping relieve fatigue and digestive issues associated with cold exposure.

• Gwakhyangjeonggi-san is known to alleviate symptoms like abdominal bloating, poor digestion, and general malaise, especially those caused by dampness and cold stagnation.

• Cheongseoikgi-tang is commonly prescribed for heat exhaustion and helps replenish energy and body fluids lost through excessive sweating during hot weather.

In addition to these prescriptions, regularly drinking teas made from ginseng (생강, Sheng Jiang, 生薑), cinnamon (계피, Rou Gui, 肉桂),  yulmu (율무, Yi Yi Ren,薏苡仁), tangerine peel (귤, Ju, 橘), and yuzu (유자, You ZI, 柚子) can support overall vitality and help maintain balance during the summer. These ingredients are believed to strengthen the digestive system, improve circulation, and boost immune function, key factors in preventing the onset of air conditioning-related symptoms.

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