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Keeping cool during the warmer months is essential to prevent illnesses such as heat cramps and heat exhaustion. But did you know you can get sick by trying to cool down? Unfortunately it’s true – if you’re cooped up in air conditioned (AC) environments you’re increasing your risk of a summertime cold.

Whether you work in a super-chilled office space or you keep your home borderline frigid, cooling devices like an air conditioner can lead to what is commonly referred to as “sick building syndrome.”

What is sick building syndrome?

Sick building syndrome refers to the residents of a building, such as an apartment or office, reporting acute health issues. Symptoms may include headache, irritation of the eyes, nose and mouth, dry cough, itchy skin and fatigue. These symptoms are not permanent and subside once individuals leave the building. There are many causes of sick building syndrome from poor ventilation, a stressful work environment, to air conditioning.

In a French study it was found that 920 women who worked in air-conditioned buildings were more likely to fall ill or visit ear, nose and throat specialists. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that healthy people are not immune to the effects of AC. They suggest that AC can lead to wheezing and even coughing.

Air conditioners can spread germs because there is no filter between indoor and outdoor air. Indoor air can be polluted, which makes it easier for the spread of mold, germs and even dander to float around. These indoor pollutants never get removed, and continue to circulate inside.