Air conditioning sickness refers to a series of physical discomfort symptoms caused by prolonged exposure to air-conditioned environments or frequent transitions between spaces with large temperature differences, making it difficult for the body to adapt to changes in temperature and humidity.

• Western Medical Perspective: mainly caused by cold air irritating the respiratory system, muscles, joints, etc., leading to discomfort, excessively dry environment and bacterial growth may also result in allergies or infections
• Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective: classified as an invasion of "wind, cold, and dampness" that depletes Yang energy, causing dysfunction in the body, particularly affecting those with spleen and kidney Yang deficiency or weaker bodies

Common air conditioning sickness is not acute but can affect quality of life, slowing work efficiency and immune response.

Major Causes of Air Conditioning Sickness

1. Large Temperature Differences

In Hong Kong, summer temperatures often exceed 30°C, while air conditioning in malls, offices, and transport is usually set between 20 to 24°C, resulting in temperature differences of over 10°C. Frequent transitions between such large temperature differences can lead to blood vessel constriction, decreased immunity, and even problems like colds, dizziness, and indigestion.

2. Direct Cold Air Exposure

Many offices or homes have air conditioning vents directed at users. Prolonged direct exposure can lead to muscle tension in the neck and shoulders, poor blood circulation, resulting in soreness, joint discomfort, and even headaches and insomnia.

3. Dry Air

Air conditioner removes moisture from the air, creating a dry environment. Long-term exposure to low humidity can lead to dry skin, throat irritation, and nasal discomfort, increasing the risk of allergies and respiratory diseases.

4. Infrequent Cleaning of Air Conditioners

If air conditioner filters are not cleaned regularly, dust mites, mold, and bacteria can accumulate. When the air conditioner runs, these harmful substances can be blown out, causing allergies, coughing, asthma, or bronchitis.

5. Prolonged Sedentary Behavior

Especially in office environments, sitting for long periods in air-conditioned rooms without activity can lead to poor blood circulation, cold extremities, and fatigue, further lowering the body's resistance.

Common Symptoms of Air Conditioning Sickness

• Headaches, dizziness
• Throat irritation, hoarseness
• Nasal congestion, runny nose, coughing
• Muscle soreness, neck and shoulder stiffness
• Cold extremities, joint pain
• Dry, itchy skin
• Lack of concentration, mental fatigue
• Gastrointestinal discomfort, bloating, diarrhea

These symptoms may appear simultaneously, particularly in individuals who stay in air-conditioned rooms for extended periods or those with low immunity.

Practical Prevention Methods for Air Conditioning Sickness

1. Adjust Indoor Temperature

Set the air conditioning temperature between 25°C and 26°C to avoid stimulating the body with excessively low temperatures, and consider using energy-saving modes to reduce temperature shocks.

2. Avoid Direct Cold Air Exposure

Adjust the direction of the air conditioning vents or install deflectors to reduce cold air blowing directly on sensitive areas like the neck, back, and head.

3. Maintain Indoor Humidity

Use a humidifier or place a cup of water or damp towel in air-conditioned rooms to help balance humidity and prevent dryness in the respiratory tract and skin.

4. Regularly Clean Air Conditioners

It is recommended to clean the filters every 2-3 weeks and conduct a deep clean once a year to prevent mold and dust mite growth and improve air quality.

5. Pay Attention to Warmth

Bring a light jacket, shawl, or scarf to protect sensitive areas like the neck, shoulders, and lower back from cold air.

6. Drink Adequate Water

Drink plenty of room temperature water to help with metabolism, keep mucous membranes moist, and prevent internal heat and fatigue.

7. Avoid Frequent Transitions Between Temperature Extremes

If you need to frequently move between hot and cold environments, pause briefly at the entrance to allow your body to adjust and reduce shock.

8. Maintain Moderate Exercise

Even in air-conditioned rooms, get up and move around for a few minutes every hour to promote blood circulation and reduce soreness and fatigue.

Traditional Chinese Dietary Therapy and Acupressure Recommendations

Dietary Recommendations:

• Ginger, red date, and brown sugar water: warmly supplements Yang energy and dispels cold, suitable for morning and evening consumption
• Xiangfu and dried tangerine peel tea: help soothe liver and regulate qi, suitable for those with chest tightness and bloating
• Astragalus and dangshen chicken soup: nourish qi and strengthens defenses, suitable for those with qi deficiency
• Lotus leaf and winter melon soup: clear heat and reduces dampness, suitable for those prone to damp-heat conditions in summer

Acupressure Points:

• Fengchi Point: relieve headaches and neck/shoulder tension
• Dazhui Point: enhance Yang energy and dispels wind and cold
• Shenshu Point: strengthen kidney energy and improves cold extremities
• Yongquan Point: stimulate blood circulation, helps dispel cold, and refreshes

Although air conditioning sickness is not life-threatening, its impact on health and quality of life should not be ignored. The reliance on air conditioning in Hong Kong necessitates increased attention to prevention. By using air conditioning wisely, complementing with traditional Chinese methods, and maintaining healthy habits, we can effectively prevent air conditioning sickness and enjoy coolness while prioritizing health.