[Reading Health] Dizziness, Indigestion, Muscle Pain... Beware of Naengbangbyeong (Cold Air Sickness)

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] As summer approaches, the heatwave continues. The Korea Meteorological Administration forecasts that the average temperature in August will be 1 to 1.5 degrees higher than usual. Since air-conditioning sickness caused by prolonged use of air conditioners is a hidden threat to health, caution is necessary.

Air-conditioning sickness is an abnormal symptom that occurs when cooling continues in an indoor space where air does not circulate, mainly caused by the temperature difference between indoors and outdoors. When the temperature difference between indoors and outdoors exceeds 5 to 8 degrees, the body fails to regulate its temperature. Professor Park Juhyun of the Department of Family Medicine at Korea University Ansan Hospital warned, "When the body temperature regulation process is blocked, the body cannot expel waste and heat on its own, making blood circulation difficult and causing changes in the autonomic nervous system, resulting in abnormal symptoms."

Symptoms include headache, cough, chills, fever, and sore throat. Rarely, muscle pain or indigestion may appear, and in severe cases, dizziness may accompany. Professor Park explained, "Patients with allergies or chronic diseases whose immune function is already weakened may experience more severe symptoms when they contract air-conditioning sickness."

Most cases of air-conditioning sickness naturally heal when the indoor cooling environment is improved. The basic treatment is to stop using the air conditioner and take adequate rest. However, if symptoms are severe, it is recommended to visit a hospital for diagnosis and combine it with medication treatment.

To prevent air-conditioning sickness, it is important not to lower the indoor temperature below 25 degrees Celsius. When cooling, start by lowering the temperature and then gradually raise it, and regularly ventilate the indoor space. Drinking warm water frequently to maintain body temperature is also a good method.

Professor Park advised, "Air-conditioning sickness is more likely to occur when the body's immunity is low," and added, "Regular light exercise and consistent health management, such as avoiding excessive drinking and overwork, are necessary."