Komfortplager

Komfortplager is a Scandinavian term used to describe subjective complaints related to a lack of comfort in daily environments. The word combines komfort (comfort) with plager (discomfort or distress). It is not a formal medical diagnosis, but a category used in research and policy discussions to capture how environmental and ergonomic factors influence everyday well-being.

The term covers discomfort arising from several domains, including indoor climate (temperature, humidity, air quality), acoustics and noise, lighting, seating and ergonomics, and the overall layout of spaces. People may report symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, sleep disturbances, headaches, or reduced work performance when environments fail to meet their comfort needs. The concept emphasizes the subjective nature of comfort and its variability across individuals and contexts.

Assessment of komfortplager typically relies on subjective comfort scales or surveys, often complemented by objective measurements of temperature, humidity, noise levels, and lighting. Because perceptions of comfort can be influenced by climate, culture, and personal factors, research tends to adopt multidimensional approaches that integrate both environmental data and personal reports.

Management and policy responses focus on designing and maintaining environments that support comfort. Measures may include improving thermal conditions and ventilation, reducing unwanted noise, optimizing lighting and glare, providing adjustable furniture, and eliminating hotspots or awkward postures. In workplaces and housing, prioritizing comfort can enhance satisfaction, productivity, and overall quality of life.

Komfortplager is related to concepts such as indoor environmental quality, ergonomic design, and quality-of-life research. Its usage varies by context, and some sources may describe similar ideas with terms like "comfort problems" or "discomfort in daily life."