Health Guidance on Fan Use During Heat Waves

Medical experts say that sleeping with a fan running all night poses only minor health risks, but they advise against continuous operation. Continuous airflow can stir dust and pollen, dry the skin and nasal passages, cause eye irritation, headaches, muscle tension and increase susceptibility to respiratory issues such as asthma and sinusitis. To reduce these effects, they recommend cleaning the fan and keeping the room tidy, positioning the fan at least one metre away from the sleeper, using a rotating blade model for uniform airflow, and employing air filters to trap allergens. During a heat wave, the fan should be placed in a window that draws cooler outside air into the room, while at night the fan can be used for cross‑ventilation by opening windows on opposite sides. Adding ice in front of the fan can enhance the cooling sensation.

Overall, limited fan use combined with proper maintenance and placement can provide comfort without significant health drawbacks.