Sleeping with fan on can cause or worsen illness, expert says;  see how to protect yourself

Sleeping with fan on can cause or worsen illness, expert says; see how to protect yourself


Dryness of the respiratory tract and the spread of dust and mites in the environment are among the main causes of problems

When temperatures reach high levels, it is very common to use a fan at night to aid sleep. However, this practice has been identified as a possible cause of uncomfortable symptoms upon awakening and, in the worst case, as an aggravation of pre-existing respiratory problems.

Nadya Mambelli, coordinator of the Biomedicine course at Faculdade Anhanguera, highlights one of the main concerns related to this habit: the dryness of the nasal region and throat caused by the constant flow of air.

This is because removing natural humidity from the respiratory tract can cause irritation, itching and, in the most serious cases, facilitate the entry of infectious agents. “For those who already suffer from respiratory conditions, such as rhinitis or asthma, continued ventilator use may further aggravate symptoms,” the specialist said in a statement.

Another point highlighted by Nadya is the possible spread of dust and mites in the environment. In fact, by moving the air, the fan spreads suspended particles, which can trigger allergies and respiratory problems, especially in more sensitive people.

How to avoid problems?

As possible alternatives to giving up the use of the fan, the specialist recommends the use of humidifiers, in addition to choosing appropriate bed linen and pajamas. The combination can help create a sleep-friendly environment without relying solely on the fan. “By adopting these precautions it is possible to enjoy quieter nights, balancing thermal comfort with the preservation of respiratory health,” he said.

Now, for those who prefer to continue relying on the fan to relieve the hot climate, the advice is to always keep the device clean, change the filters regularly and use a humidifier in the room. It is also important to always be aware of respiratory symptoms and consult a doctor when necessary.

The expert also warns that children may be sensitive to wind from the fan and may experience ear pain and muscle cramps, symptoms that few people attribute to wind. “I always recommend moistening a towel with water and a few drops of natural essence of lavender, mint or spearmint, as they give a feeling of freshness and also help strengthen the immune system,” advises Nadya.

Source: Terra

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