DOI: 10.36347/sjams.2017.v05i06.064

Pages: 2393-2398

In recent times a great increase in the use of Air conditioners (AC) by common man has been observed. AC causes air to become cold and dry. This can adversely affect the health of the AC users, particularly respiratory system. The present study was selected to study the adverse effects of use of AC on respiratory health as measured by pulmonary function tests. The study was aimed to assess the effect of using AC on pulmonary function tests. To compare the parameters of pulmonary function tests of AC users with those not using AC and follow up of the same after 1 year.100 healthy, nonsmoker adults of age 25 – 50 yrs exposed to AC for minimum 6 hours a day since minimum 1 year were selected as study group. Controls were age and sex matched healthy, non-smoker 100 adults, not exposed to AC. Exclusion criteria were smoking, those with respiratory disorders, sportsmen & those doing pranayam or breathing exercises. Spirometry parameters recorded were, FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, FEF25-75%, FEF25-75%/FVC and PEFR. Statistical analysis was done by applying students unpaired t test, Mann Whitney test and Wilcoxon’s signed rank sum test. The PFT parameters, FEV1, FEF25-75% and FEF25-75%/FVC in AC users were significantly less than non AC users and follow up after 1 year showed FEF25-75%, FEF25-75%/FVC and PEFR significantly less in AC users than non AC users. The cool and dehumidified air of AC can cause increased airway resistance and may bring changes in pulmonary function tests of AC users. AC users should be advised for regular spirometry to prevent any further complications.