Broken fan, closed curtains, and maybe a glass of water in hand. It is the classic image of the hottest days in summer. But if there are more than 40 degrees out and the air is dry, that air that seems fresh may hurt you more than well. A very clear study says so, conducted by an international team of Australian and Canadian researchers, who analyzed as the body reacts when it is exposed to a fan in different climatic conditions.
The fan only helps in some cases
The test involved 58 adults over 60 years old, some of which with heart problems. At 38 ° C and 60% humidity, the fan – positioned one meter away – gave slight relief: the internal temperature dropped by just 0.1 ° C, but the subjective sensation of freshness has increased. Especially if, in addition to the fan, a brumarer was also used or the skin was moistened. In practice, sweating was simulated: more humidity on the skin + air on the move = more effective evaporation.
But be careful: feeling better does not mean being safe. The body can continue to warm up internally, even if the skin seems fresh. And this is a risk, especially for those with pathologies or is particularly sensitive to heat.
Here is the most important part: in extreme dry heat conditions – 45 ° C with just 15% humidity – the fan has made the opposite effect. Instead of cooling, it has increased the body temperature by 0.3 ° C. As? By blowing hot air on the skin, just like a ventilated oven. The result: more sweating, more fatigue and no real benefit, not even with wet skin.
In these cases, especially for those with heart problems or are elderly, the fan can be dangerous. The data speak clearly: according to a study published by Scimex, during the heat waves the risk of death for tripplica cardiac causes. And a fan used in the wrong way can contribute.
What can you do if you don’t have air conditioning?
Not everyone has a conditioner at home, but there are still smart strategies so as not to suffer the heat:
The fan can become a danger
The message of scientists is clear: the fan is not always a good idea. In the presence of dry heat above 40 ° C, better not to use it. The risk is to feel better for a few minutes, but find yourself with the body in silent overheating, which can also become serious. In these conditions, rather than the temperature, the humidity of the air counts: only if it is quite high, the fan can really help.
Have you ever had the feeling that the fan made you sweat you even more? Have you ever felt tired or stunned after using it in full heat? If yes, you are not the only one. And sharing experiences can be useful, especially in August.
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