Life without machines is impossible nowadays, may it be Air conditioners (AC),vehicles or mobiles.ACs are being commonly used in homes and offices. 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 done to compare the spirometric parameters of AC users with non users and to study the effect of duration of AC exposure on spirometric parameters.100 healthy, non smokers of age 25 – 50 yrs exposed to AC were selected as study group. Controls were age and sex matched healthy, non smoker 100 adults, not exposed to AC. Exclusion criteria were smoking, respiratory disorders, sportsmen & those doing pranayam. 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 , Pearson’s co relation and One way Annova tests.The PFT parameters, FEV1, FEF25-75% and FEF25-75%/FVC in AC users were significantly less than non AC users. There was no significant co relation between duration of AC exposure and spirometric parameters. The cool and dehumidified air of AC can cause increased airway resistance and changes in pulmonary function tests of AC users. AC users should be advised regular spirometry to prevent any complications.
