Doctor Issues Warning About Fan Use During Heatwave
A doctor has cautioned against a common summer habit many rely on when temperatures soar. As the UK faces a 35C heatwave, experts warn that sleeping with an electric fan running all night may do more harm than good.
The warning comes as the Met Office issued rare red-level heat alerts for parts of the UK, signaling a risk to life and significant disruption. Night-time temperatures remain unusually high, with buildings retaining heat absorbed during the day, offering little natural cooling relief.
Fans May Worsen Allergies, Says Doctor
According to Dr Naheed Ali, interviewed by Kool FM, leaving a fan on overnight can worsen symptoms for allergy sufferers. The constant airflow disturbs settled dust, circulating particles that may irritate the eyes, throat, and nasal passages.
The NHS states that allergies like hay fever can be triggered or worsened by airborne particles such as pollen, dust, and pet dander. These may become more noticeable in enclosed indoor environments during warmer months.
Drying Effect and Sleep Quality
Health experts note that moving air from a fan creates a drying effect, potentially causing discomfort in the nose and throat overnight, especially when air conditioning or ventilation is limited.
The UK Health Security Agency has previously warned that hot weather itself disrupts sleep quality, as high overnight temperatures make it harder for the body to regulate core temperature and maintain restful sleep. Research cited by the Sleep Foundation indicates cooler environments generally support better sleep, but excessive airflow or irritants can reduce comfort for those with respiratory sensitivities.
Practical Advice for Staying Cool
While fans remain a popular, low-cost way to cope with extreme heat, experts stress their effects vary depending on individual sensitivity, room cleanliness, and underlying conditions. Practical advice includes keeping bedrooms well-ventilated before bedtime, reducing dust through regular cleaning, and using lighter bedding to manage body temperature.
As the UK endures prolonged extreme heat, officials emphasize that maintaining good sleep quality is increasingly important for health and wellbeing, particularly for those vulnerable to heat stress or respiratory irritation.
