As the country faces an extreme heat wave, experts are advising against using electric room fans indoors when temperatures rise above 90 degrees. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, using fans in such conditions can actually increase the body’s core temperature, leading to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and heat cramps.
Understanding the Risks
The American Lung Association refers to this phenomenon as a ‘false sense of comfort.’ When the air indoors is hotter than the body’s core temperature, fans can stop facilitating sweat evaporation, which is essential for cooling down. Dr. John Torres, NBC News medical correspondent and ER physician, recommends turning off the fan if it makes you feel worse.
With 35 states experiencing record heat this week, it is essential to be aware of the symptoms of heat-related illnesses, including headaches, dizziness, and nausea. The World Health Organization advises against using electric fans when indoor temperatures exceed 104 degrees.
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
