Sleeping with a fan on is a common practice for many, but concerns about its potential health effects have surfaced.
Experts generally agree that while using a fan can enhance comfort and aid sleep, it may also lead to some mild side effects.
Allergies and Irritation: Fans can circulate dust, pollen, and other allergens, potentially exacerbating allergy symptoms such as sneezing and congestion, particularly for sensitive individuals.
Dryness: The airflow from a fan can dry out the mouth, throat, and eyes, leading to discomfort. This dryness may result in increased mucus production, causing a stuffy nose or sore throat.
Muscle Aches: Prolonged exposure to direct airflow may cause muscle stiffness or soreness.
Despite these concerns, experts like Dr. Kiran Dintyala emphasize that sleeping with a fan on should not make you sick.
Instead, it can be beneficial for cooling and creating white noise, which many find helpful for sleep. If you experience discomfort, consider adjusting the fan's position or using a humidifier to mitigate dryness.