Here's Why You Probably Shouldn't Sleep With A Fan On To Beat The Heat

People in some parts of Australia are hot, sweaty messes because of particularly toasty weather.

While it can be absolutely glorious during the day, it can also be quite annoying when your thighs are sticking together in bed.

As such, it can be tempting to turn the fan on so you can doze off, but you might want to think twice about that.

A fan works by moving cool, dry air around the room, which is ideal if you're feeling too warm, but it can also dry out your throat, nose and eyes, which is less than ideal if you're already dealing with those issues because of hay fever.

They can also blow pollen and dust particles up your nose and in your eyes.

But they're not just troublesome for people with allergies.

As the Sleep Advisor website explains: "The constant stream of air also has a tendency to dry out your nasal passages, which could affect your sinuses.

"If the dryness is particularly extreme, it can result in your body producing excess mucus to try to compensate. Then, you're more susceptible to blockage, stuffiness, and sinus headaches."

Mmm, mucus. How about some muscular aches to go with that too?

The website continues: "People who sleep with a breeze directly on them may wake up with stiff or sore muscles. This is because the concentrated cool air can make muscles tense up and cramp.

"This problem is especially common for people who sleep with it near their face and neck. If you've been waking up with a stiff neck in the morning, it might be because of the constant breeze."

This is not to say you shouldn't sleep with a fan on necessarily - after all, it is very hot - it just depends on the individual.

If there's poor air flow in your room, you like the white noise and you get hot easily, then go for it. However, if you have allergies or dry skin, then you might be better off swerving it.

If you fall into the latter camp, there are others steps you can take to maximise your chances of getting a comfortable sleep.

Sleep expert James Wilson - aka The Sleep Geek - told LADbible: "During the day, open windows on either side of the house. Get a nice airflow through and when direct sunlight is in a room, ensure the blinds or curtains are closed.

"Have a bath or shower in the hour before bed, or a great tip is to fill a hot water bottle with lukewarm water and place your bare feet on it. This will raise your temperature slightly and then it will drop, helping your body prepare for sleep."

Another practical tip you could try is putting your pillowcase in the fridge - dampening it slightly for an enhanced effect. Exercising during the day to really tire yourself out can be handy too.

Featured Image Credit: Alamy

Topics: Australia