Every summer, the same worry returns with the heatwave: after a night under the air conditioning, a runny nose and irritated throat give the impression of having caught a cold.
Does “air conditioning cold” really exist?
The famous “air conditioning cold” is then blamed for all evils. But what really happens in our body when we spend hours in cold, dry air with the windows closed?
On Instagram, Spanish doctor David Callejo wanted to clearly respond to this fear. He recalls that “cold air does not cause colds. Viruses cause colds“For him, the problem comes less from the device than from the way it is used: rooms closed for hours, very dry air, jet aimed at the face.
Air conditioning and colds: what cold air really does to the body
In his video, David Callejo details three mechanisms that transform an air-conditioned room into a playground for respiratory viruses. He explains that “cold, closed and dry environments can facilitate the spread of viruses and air conditioning creates just these environments”.
Dry air dries the mucous membranes of the nose and throat, which filter microbes less well. In addition, poorly maintained air conditioning systems also generate dust and irritants.
Another key point: the air current directed towards the face or neck. For David Callejo, the constant flow irritates the respiratory tract and causes sore throat or blocked nose, “symptoms indistinguishable from a cold and which, in addition, can facilitate the entry of viruses“.
Ameli.fr, for its part, reminds that nasopharyngitis remains a viral infection: without contact with a virus, air conditioning alone is not enough to make you sick.
The right action against “air conditioning cold” explained by the doctor
Concretely, the number one good reflex to limit the risk is not to cut everything, but to never receive the flow in the face. Simply direct the fins towards the ceiling or a wall, avoid placing the bed or desk in the axis of the breath and, if possible, do not sleep with your head directly under the device.
In his message, David Callejo also advises:
- Maintain room temperature between
24 and 26°C ; - To prevent the air jet from being directed directly at you;
- To ventilate the rooms regularly;
- And use a humidifier if the environment is very dry.
The Ameli.fr site makes the same recommendations.
Air conditioning, colds and maintenance: other useful reflexes
Last point often forgotten: maintenance of the air conditioner. A poorly cleaned device can spread dust, allergens or even viruses already present in the room.
Some specialists also mention thermal stress when the difference exceeds around 8°C between the outside and the inside. Keeping filters clean and a moderate setting will therefore reduce both discomfort and the risk of infection.