Could my AC be causing these symptoms?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment seems to be causing some strange symptoms—my throat feels dry, and I’ve had a mild headache almost every day since we turned it up higher last week. It’s only on the upper floor of the building, so everyone else doesn’t seem to have any issues. Should I just keep using it and hope it passes, or should I call an HVAC professional?
Posted by Michiko Sato
Asked on January 30, 2026 1:39 am
It seems your air conditioning system may indeed be causing those symptoms. The dryness of the throat and recurring mild headaches are conditions that can arise due to improper indoor environmental quality (IEQ). In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, where we experience a lot of hot weather, AC systems play a crucial role in maintaining comfort levels but they must be well-maintained to prevent such health issues.

Firstly, it’s essential to understand how an air conditioning system can impact your health. HVAC units, especially those located on upper floors as per your case, may distribute dry and stagnant air throughout the premises. This can lead to dehydration of the mucous membranes in your throat and nasal passages, often resulting in discomfort and mild headaches.

In Dubai, where we adhere closely to building codes and environmental standards, AC systems must meet certain criteria to ensure they do not compromise the health of occupants. The UAE Building Code (UAE-BC) emphasizes the importance of maintaining adequate humidity levels within buildings. However, if your system is not properly serviced or the air filtration isn’t up-to-date, it can indeed lead to issues like yours.

Given these symptoms, I recommend you schedule a professional inspection by a certified HVAC technician. They will be able to check the AC unit for any malfunctions that could be contributing to this problem, such as insufficient humidity levels, poor air filtration, or even mold growth (though you mentioned no one else is affected, it’s still worth checking).

In addition to a professional inspection, consider implementing some temporary measures until your AC system can be properly serviced. You might want to use a humidifier in your apartment which can help add moisture back into the air and alleviate throat dryness. Also, ensure that you open windows or use ventilation systems during cooler times of the day to bring in fresh outdoor air.

If you decide to contact a service provider for inspection, please consider calling 800-MOLDS or emailing hello@saniservice.com. These professionals can offer an expert opinion and provide necessary repairs if needed.

In conclusion, while it’s natural to hope that your symptoms will pass with time, given the specific nature of your issue in relation to AC use, a thorough evaluation is recommended. Ignoring these symptoms could potentially lead to more severe health concerns down the line, so taking proactive steps now can benefit both your comfort and overall well-being.

Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is crucial for everyone’s health, especially in environments like Dubai where we often rely on air conditioning systems.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 1, 2026 6:46 pm