Side Effects of Sleeping with a Fan

Many people rely on the relaxing comfort a fan offers when they sleep. Without it, they report not getting those necessary 40 winks.  Many experts attest to the fact that the average adult must have seven to nine hours per night to be happy, healthy, well-rested and productive.  If not, serious health problems can develop.

But, there are some definite benefits that also come with some serious side effects when sleeping with a fan on. There are precautions you can take to ensure you get what you need from having a fan on and, at the same time, mitigate any possible health issues.

A Note about Fans

A fan, in and of itself, isn’t bad and it isn’t dangerous to sleep with one on. Factors that could cause some health problems are things like the design of the room, window access, pollution and other toxins that fill the room. So, of course, it’s crucial to control these as fast as possible.

Common Side Effects of Sleeping with a Fan

A fan’s placement and room temperature are the combination that defines the line between an excellent night’s sleep or having lung and respiratory problems. So, having a fan on isn’t bad per se, but it can be bad depending on your environment and circumstances.

Dryness

One of the most common side effects of sleeping with a fan on is that constant, rapid air circulation can dry you out. It removes any moisture from your nasal passages, including your mouth. This creates a “cottonmouth” effect when you wake up in the morning.

Most people report having symptoms that involve excessive, unquenchable thirst with a dry tongue. The best way to combat the effects of this is to keep the fan at a reasonable and safe distance from your bed.

Allergies ; Sinus Issues

Another on the list for top side effects of sleeping with a fan on is that it circulates dust, pet dander and other particulates. This can create horrible problems for those with allergies and sensitive sinuses.

A buildup of air toxins can make for a hellish morning with your sinuses. They’re clogged, painful and downright uncomfortable. Once again, if you have to have a fan on, place it in an area that protects your nasal passages.

Tense Muscles ; Pinched Nerves

Sore muscles, pinched nerves and other muscle contractions are all things than can result from sleeping with a fan on. This is because it generates cold air that’s always moving throughout the room. If it’s autumn or winter, this can be disastrous to your work day. This is also true for air conditioners left on all night long.

Although massages and ibuprofen might help the pain, it won’t go away until you do something about the never ending cold air circulation. You want to avoid air blowing right on you when you sleep because it can have serious side effects. This is why your fan should never make it cooler than 68°F (20°C).

Benefits of Having a Fan on While Sleeping

So, yes, even though there are side effects of sleeping with a fan on, there are also several benefits. It’s not all doom and gloom. But, there may be some better solutions to get what you need from having a fan on while you sleep without actually using a fan.

It’s Better than a TV

First, having a fan on is much better than a TV playing in the background while you sleep. A TV’s sounds and volumes constantly change, which can actually interrupt your sleep.

The Sound of White or Pink Noise

Some people need noise in the background to relax before sleeping. Many people report the need for a fan on while they sleep because of the sound it provides. This is white or pink noise. But, if it’s wintertime, it’s not advisable to have a fan on.

Getting a white noise machine or finding an app for your smartphone that features various color sounds to help induce snoozing is a great way to remove your dependency on a fan and give sound comfort during the winter.

Other Solutions

But, some people have hot rooms, regardless of the time of year because of where the bedroom is in relationship to a heater or furnace. In this case, keeping the room cool will be essential. A room that stays around 67°F to 70°F will help provide the best sleep possible.

If a fan isn’t keeping you cool and you’re experiencing some of the side effects of sleeping with a fan on, then you may want to try an air conditioner. But not any air conditioner will do, especially if you live in a small space. What may compound the issue is the size or even existence of a window.

The Blast Auxiliary

That’s what makes products like Blast Auxiliary featured at Inc500 Conference the perfect solution. It keeps your room cool and is no louder than 40 decibels while purifying harmful particles and dust out of the air. It’s portable, ergonomic and energy-efficient design means you can take it anywhere.

Its fan has three speeds for better temperature control. The best thing is there are no hassles in setup or installation. Just turn the unit on to get immediate and constant airflow. Because it’s cordless, you can place it anywhere for the most advantageous effect.

Inc500 Conference has other products like portable air conditioners, dehumidifiers and air deodorizers. All these can help with breathing and air quality to give you more control over your environment.

Climate Control Wisdom

As you can see, there are some side effects of sleeping with a fan on you but it isn’t all bad. Making sure the air isn’t blowing on you while you sleep while maintaining an average room temperature is imperative. 

But, if you suffer from allergies or are prone to other sinus problems, consider getting a portable air conditioner with an air purifier, like the Blast Auxiliary.