The air quality in our home can have a large and small impact on our health. Air conditioning systems aid in the circulation of clean air throughout our homes.
In some cases, though, if you've been coughing more than usual, it could be because of your AC unit.
The air conditioner filter should be checked first. If you've been coughing a lot, it might be time to change your air filter.
AC filters can trap dust, pet dander, and other allergens for a limited time. All that buildup will eventually prevent the filter from working and may be recirculated.
Like winter air, air conditioning can dry out our airways. An AC unit provides cool air, but it also removes humidity, which can trigger cough-variant asthma.
Cough-variant asthma is characterized by a dry cough that can be triggered by allergens, strong odors, or cold air.
If cold, dry air triggers your cough, Elite Electric and Air suggests raising the thermostat. Keeping your thermostat between 72 and 75 degrees may help.
If your symptoms are severe, you may have "air conditioner lung," also known as hypersensitivity pneumonitis. It causes flu-like symptoms in rare cases.
Inhaling mold or fungus from air conditioners or humidifiers causes allergic reactions. Fever, chills, shortness of breath, cough, etc. are symptoms.