Can Air Conditioning Cause Hay Fever?

You might have noticed you cough, sniff or sneeze more often when the air conditioning is on. Could you be allergic to your air conditioner? While you can't develop hay fever from your air conditioner, you can be allergic to the air circulating through it. Read on to learn more about the impact your air conditioner may be having on your allergies.

Hay fever occurs as a response to an allergen, such as dust mites, pollen or pets. If you develop hay fever, you might find your symptoms are similar to those of a cold. You may develop a runny nose, nasal congestion, watery eyes, sneezing and coughing, post-nasal drip, or fatigue.

Typical allergens triggering hay fever include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mould and mildew, and if you get hay fever you may notice that your symptoms begin or get worse at a certain time of year.

If you're noticing your symptoms becoming worse when you turn on your air conditioner, it may be spreading allergens that trigger your hay fever or make it worse.

If you've developed hay fever, there are things you can do to minimise and relieve your symptoms.

There are many varieties of antihistamine medications which you can get either over-the-counter or on prescription if your symptoms are severe. They often come as nasal sprays or tablets, and you may need to try a few options before you have success. Alternatively, your doctor may recommend injections, known as immunotherapy, or desensitisation therapy aimed to reduce sensitivity if medications aren't helping. 

It's also important to try and limit any contact with potential allergens. While complete avoidance isn't possible, if you know what does cause your symptoms you'll be able to prevent contact more readily. You might try:

• Closing your doors and windows during pollen season
• Using an air filter in your vents, a humidifier in your bedroom, or purifying plants
• Deterring dust mites with allergy-proof mattress and pillow covers, and reducing humidity with your air conditioner
• Keeping pets out of your home or washing your dog twice weekly to limit pet dander
• Clean out your air conditioner's filters, vents, and unit - as this may be making your symptoms worse

Hay fever can lead to complications that can affect your daily life, including:

• Reduced enjoyment, productivity and attendance at work or school
• Poor sleep, tiredness and malaise
• Worsening symptoms of asthma
• Sinusitis from prolonged congestion
• Middle ear infections, especially in children.

If you need quality air conditioning services in the Northern Rivers region, Coolman Airconditioning is the answer. We have years of experience providing installations, servicing and support to our valued residential and commercial clients, and you'll be confident we'll take care of any job, big or small. Contact us today on 0422 291 433.