Your Air Conditioner Could Be Making You Sick: Dubai Pulmonologist Warns of Hidden Respiratory Risks
Dr Muhammed Aslam, Specialist Pulmonologist at International Modern Hospital Dubai, warns that prolonged exposure to cold, dry air and poorly maintained air-conditioning systems can aggravate asthma, allergies and respiratory irritation, particularly among vulnerable individuals.
Dubai: Air conditioning is essential for daily life in the UAE, where high temperatures make cooled indoor environments a necessity for much of the year. However, a Dubai-based pulmonologist is warning that the air people breathe inside their homes, offices and cars may contribute to respiratory discomfort, particularly when air-conditioning systems are poorly maintained or indoor temperatures are excessively cold.
Dr Muhammed Aslam, Specialist Pulmonologist at International Modern Hospital Dubai, said prolonged exposure to cold, dry air can irritate the respiratory tract and aggravate existing conditions, including asthma and allergies.
“Prolonged exposure to cold, dry air can cause nasal and throat dryness, eye irritation, and worsen allergies or asthma in susceptible individuals. Poorly maintained air-conditioning systems may also circulate dust and mould, triggering respiratory symptoms,” Dr Aslam explained.
He emphasised that air conditioning itself is not inherently harmful and plays an important role in preventing heat-related illnesses. The concern arises when cooling systems are inadequately maintained or indoor conditions trigger symptoms in sensitive individuals.
Why cold, dry air can irritate your lungs
The respiratory system relies on the nose and airways to warm and humidify inhaled air.
When indoor air is unusually cold or dry, some people may experience irritation of the nose, throat and airways, particularly after spending extended periods in air-conditioned environments.
Symptoms can include a dry or sore throat, nasal discomfort, coughing and irritation of the eyes.
People with asthma or sensitive airways may be more likely to experience symptoms because cold air can provoke airway narrowing in susceptible individuals.
However, these reactions vary, and not everyone exposed to air conditioning will develop respiratory problems.
Could your AC filters be making allergies worse?
Dr Aslam highlighted poor air-conditioning maintenance as another important concern.
Over time, dust, dirt and moisture can accumulate in cooling systems. When maintenance is neglected, contaminated components may contribute to poor indoor air quality.
“Poorly maintained air-conditioning systems may also circulate dust and mould, triggering respiratory symptoms,” he warned.
Airborne allergens and irritants can aggravate sneezing, nasal congestion, coughing and wheezing, particularly among people with allergic rhinitis or asthma.
Moisture problems can also encourage mould growth, making prompt identification and correction of leaks or condensation issues important.
Regular servicing, appropriate filter replacement and attention to indoor moisture are practical ways to reduce these risks.
Why asthma patients may be more sensitive
For people living with asthma, environmental conditions can influence the frequency and severity of respiratory symptoms.
Cold air may trigger coughing, wheezing, chest tightness or shortness of breath in susceptible patients.
Dust and mould are also recognised triggers for some people with asthma, particularly when exposure occurs repeatedly in enclosed spaces.
Dr Aslam advised patients with persistent or worsening respiratory symptoms to seek medical assessment rather than assuming the discomfort is simply caused by summer weather.
People with diagnosed asthma should continue using their prescribed medication and follow their personalised asthma action plan.
Moving between extreme heat and cold indoor spaces
During the UAE summer, residents may repeatedly move between outdoor heat and heavily air-conditioned indoor environments.
For some people with sensitive airways, the sudden exposure to much cooler, drier air can provoke discomfort or respiratory symptoms.
Maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature rather than excessively cold conditions may help reduce irritation.
It is also important to recognise that the precise temperature at which symptoms occur varies from person to person.
Who should take extra precautions?
Dr Aslam highlighted the need for particular attention among people with asthma, respiratory allergies and other chronic respiratory conditions.
Children and older adults may also require additional care when indoor environments are excessively cold or poorly ventilated.
Those who repeatedly experience coughing, wheezing, nasal irritation or breathing difficulties in a particular indoor environment should consider whether temperature, dust, dampness or ventilation may be contributing factors.
Persistent symptoms warrant medical evaluation.
Five ways to improve indoor air quality
Dr Aslam’s warning reinforces the importance of practical precautions during periods of heavy air-conditioning use.
- Maintain AC systems regularly: Clean or replace filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions and arrange professional servicing when needed.
- Avoid excessively cold indoor temperatures: Choose a comfortable setting, particularly if cold air triggers respiratory symptoms.
- Address moisture and mould promptly: Repair leaks, investigate damp areas and ensure cooling systems drain properly.
- Support adequate ventilation: Follow appropriate building ventilation guidance and improve fresh-air circulation where practical and safe.
- Pay attention to recurring symptoms: Seek medical advice if coughing, wheezing, breathlessness or persistent irritation develops or worsens indoors.
Air conditioning is essential, but maintenance matters
Dr Aslam stressed that residents should not avoid air conditioning during extreme heat, as effective cooling is important for protecting health and preventing heat-related illness.
Instead, the focus should be on ensuring that indoor environments remain comfortable and cooling systems are properly maintained.
For people with asthma and allergies, recognising environmental triggers can help reduce unnecessary respiratory irritation and improve day-to-day symptom control.
The message is clear: air conditioning should provide relief from the heat without compromising the quality of the air people breathe.
