Air conditioners are a familiar device in summer. However, improper use of air conditioners not only increases the risk of respiratory illnesses but also affects ear health, especially in young children, the elderly, and individuals with ear, nose, and throat conditions.

Master, Doctor Nguyen Thuy Linh, from the Ear, Nose, and Throat Department at Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi, points out common mistakes that can affect ear health when using air conditioners.

Setting the air conditioner too cold

Setting the air conditioner below 18 degrees C for rapid cooling creates a significant temperature difference between the outdoor environment and the air-conditioned room. This sudden change can affect the function of the eustachian tube, a structure connecting the middle ear to the nasopharynx, which plays a role in balancing middle ear pressure.

When the eustachian tube malfunctions or becomes temporarily blocked, middle ear pressure is not regulated effectively, often leading to feelings of ear fullness, tinnitus, discomfort, or ear pain.

Setting the air conditioner temperature too low can cause ear pain and tinnitus. *Duy Anh*

Directing air conditioner airflow at the head

Many individuals habitually sleep or work directly under the air conditioner's vent. When cold air blows directly onto the head, face, and ears for extended periods, it can cause localized vasoconstriction, reducing blood flow to tissues. This can lead to cold ears, aches, or discomfort, especially in sensitive individuals or those with existing ear, nose, and throat conditions.

Not maintaining proper air humidity

According to Doctor Linh, continuous air conditioner operation reduces room humidity. Without adequate humidification or ventilation, the nasal and pharyngeal mucous membranes can easily dry out.

Normally, the mucus layer and the mucociliary clearance system on the mucous membrane surface play a role in retaining and eliminating dust, viruses, and bacteria from the respiratory tract. When the mucous membranes dry out, this protective mechanism weakens, creating conditions for pathogens to invade the nasopharynx. These pathogens can then spread to the middle ear via the eustachian tube, increasing the risk of otitis media.

To mitigate the adverse effects of air conditioners on the ears and upper respiratory tract, users should maintain the air conditioner temperature between 26-28 degrees C, avoiding a difference of more than 8-10 degrees C from the outdoor temperature. Avoid directing cold airflow directly at the face and ears for extended periods. Maintain room humidity at 40-60% by using a humidifier or placing a bowl of water in the room. Regularly clean air conditioner filters to limit the accumulation of dust, mold, and microorganisms.

Individuals with nasal and pharyngeal conditions such as rhinitis, sinusitis, or allergic rhinitis should seek treatment to manage these conditions and reduce the risk of eustachian tube dysfunction and otitis media. If symptoms like ear pain, tinnitus, hearing loss, ear fullness, or persistent ear discharge occur, patients should consult an Ear, Nose, and Throat specialist.

Minh Duong