In an overheated interior in this season, buying a fan can help you better experience the heat wave. But beware! In some cases, especially in the most vulnerable people, their use can also increase the risk of heart attack.
A high temperature fan weakens heart health
The reaction has been updated by a recent study. Researchers from the University of Sydney had the idea of testing the effect of fans on body temperature, heart rate, perspiration and comfort when used in a hot and humid environment.
- Study participants were invited to carry out four separate three -hour trials in a climate chamber set to 39.2 ° C and 49 % humidity;
- During two of the sessions, they were well hydrated and had drank the amount of liquid recommended for 24 hours before the test, and could also drink during the test;
- For the other two, they were asked to dehydrate, to avoid liquids and foods with a high water content within 24 hours preceding the test and they were forbidden to drink during the test.
In each hydration state, the participants were tested with and without fan.
The data has been clear: the use of a fan in case of dehydration can worsen heart tension, which can possibly lead to heart attacks. In addition, the researchers concluded that using a fan increased sweaty losses by around 60 %, which could mean that using a fan could be harmful if you are dehydrated.
Seniors directly affected by this thermal stress
Consulted, Dr. Gérald Kierzek, medical director of True Medical confirms this link to know between ventilation and vulnerable people, or elderly characters.
“In already dehydrated seniors, the use of a fan can paradoxically worsen thermal stress by increasing the loss of sweat, which intensifies dehydration and more requests the heart, which can accelerate heart rate and increase the risk of cardiovascular complications”.
A phenomenon also amplified by another data linked to age: the lack of perspiration. “Due to their slightest sweating, the elderly do not always benefit from the expected refreshment, especially in very hot and dry weather.”
For the expert, it is therefore recommended to use the fan in moderation, to avoid a direct air flow, to maintain good internal and external hydration (water vapor on the skin) to limit these risks linked to thermal stress and preserve heart health.
No fan beyond 38 ° for everyone
For the director of the study, Connor Graham, several conclusions are essential.
“The use of a fan can reduce elevations linked to heat from thermal and cardiovascular tension to temperatures up to around 39 to 40 ° C. Under warmer conditions, fans must be extinguished, as they can worsen thermal stress”.
Researchers also warned that fans should only be used at temperatures above 37 ° C in the elderly taking anticholinergic drugs such as oxybutynin for the control of the bladder.
If you have vulnerable people in your loved ones, it is also advisable to make their news, to ensure sufficient hydration on their part, and to make sure to refresh their accommodation, by closing the curtains for example in the rooms exposed to the sun.
Recognize the symptoms of exhaustion
Finally, it is essential to know how to identify the signs of exhaustion of a person in the heat, even installed near fans. A heat stroke occurs when the body loses its ability to cool and its internal temperature, which generally oscillates around 37 ° C, increases rapidly up to more than 40 ° C. The heart begins to frantically pump blood to try to cool it against the surface of the skin.
According to professionals, the precursor signs of a heat stroke, the exhaustion due to heat, include:
- Fatigue;
- A high temperature;
- Excessive sweating;
- Thirst;
- Weakness.
- Fast breathing;
- A quick heart rate;
- Headaches;
- Sometimes nausea, vomiting;
- Cramps in the arms, legs and stomachs.
If someone presents these signs, it is advisable to cool it and give it liquids. If the symptoms persist or worsen after 30 minutes, it’s time to call for help.