Caught a Cold from Air Conditioning This Summer? Experts Advise How to Avoid It

As summer temperatures soar, the convenience of air conditioning often leads to an increase in colds, but the cause is not typically infection, according to pharmacist Mindaugas Rutalė.

Rutalė explains that the human body struggles to adapt to rapid temperature shifts, such as moving from intense outdoor heat into heavily cooled indoor environments. This sudden contrast stresses the body, causing respiratory tract lining to constrict, reducing its protective functions and weakening immunity, which creates an opportunity for viruses and bacteria.

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Our body is not used to sudden temperature changes, so a sudden contrast causes stress to the body – the respiratory tract lining constricts, its protective functions decrease, immunity weakens, and viruses and bacteria have a great opportunity to establish themselves in the body.

To prevent these summer colds, Rutalė advises maintaining a temperature difference of no more than 6-8 degrees Celsius between indoor and outdoor environments. For instance, if it is 30 degrees Celsius outside, indoor temperatures should not drop below 22 degrees Celsius. He also emphasizes that the airflow from air conditioners should not be directed straight at people, especially targeting the neck, shoulders, or lower back, as these areas are particularly vulnerable to chills and muscle tension.

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The first step to avoid colds from air conditioners in summer is to ensure that the temperature of indoor premises or a car is not lower than 6-8 degrees from the outdoor temperature, i.e., if it is 30 degrees heat outside, the indoor temperature should not be lower than 22 degrees.

Certain groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic respiratory conditions like asthma or chronic bronchitis, are at higher risk. For them, sudden cooling can exacerbate existing illnesses. In some cases, air conditioner use might trigger allergy-like symptoms, such as a runny nose and watery, itchy eyes without fever, potentially caused by dust, mold spores, or dust mites accumulating in the filters.

If colds do occur, Rutalė recommends natural treatments. Saline nasal rinses can help clear mucus and moisturize nasal passages, while inhalations with eucalyptus or pine essential oils can ease coughing. Staying hydrated with fluids, and drinking tea with honey, lemon, and ginger, can soothe a sore throat. He notes that most summer colds resolve on their own.

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Nose washing with saline solution will help remove accumulated mucus and moisturize the nasal lining. Inhalations with eucalyptus or pine essential oils can ease coughing. During a cold, it is also important to consume plenty of fluids; tea with honey, lemon, and ginger will help a sore and irritated throat.