Is it advisable to sleep with a humidifier, purifier or air cooler because of the heat?

The high temperatures that exist in summer affect many people when carrying out their daily activities during the day. It adds to sleep problems heat what is there in the nights affecting sleep and bringing discomfort due to this situation.

Currently, many prefer to use fans, air conditioners, air coolers, humidifiers or air purifiers , any device used to lower the temperature of the house. For this, experts have given their opinion to La Tercera on what can be beneficial during the summer season.

For those who live in dry climates, Air humidifiers can be helpful. As Theresa Schnorbach, Emma Chile’s sleep scientist, mentions at La Tercera, since these devices add humidity, avoid the mucous membranes of the nose and throat dry out which may benefit breathing and reduce the risk of respiratory infections.

—Proper humidity levels can also prevent snoring and make sleep more comfortable . However, it is important to properly maintain the humidifier to prevent the growth of mold or bacteria.

Concerning purifiers, they are effective in reducing air pollutants , which can affect sleep and health. These devices trap or neutralize substances and gases harmful to breathing. Considering this, minimizes allergens and triggers asthma which improves air quality and reduces the risk of breathing difficulties during sleep.

Sleeping in a cool room, especially during this period of high temperatures, has several advantages. Emma Chile’s scientist mentions that there are some benefits to using an air cooler.

—As night approaches, our body temperature naturally drops, indicating that it is time to sleep and rest. Keep the room cooler, We can encourage this natural drop in temperature and improve our body’s preparation for sleep. . The cool temperature can also facilitate sleep and help improve its quality.

Despite several advantages, These devices also pose certain problems if not used correctly. . As scientist Schnorbach mentions, Humidifiers can create an overly humid environment if not regulated so there may be growth of mold, bacteria or dust mites.

Purifiers, for their part, those which have ionizers or ultraviolet light, can produce certain amounts of ozone, which worsens certain respiratory conditions . Finally, if the temperature of the air coolers was set too low, it would cause discomfort, which would increase nighttime awakenings.

The use of these devices during the summer will depend on the surrounding conditions. and people’s preferences. If a person lives in a humid area, using the humidifier is not necessary. However, if you live in an arid climate or use air conditioning that excessively dries indoor air, this device may be beneficial in preventing drying out.

Regarding air purifiers, scientist Emma Chile mentions: “Its use does not depend on the season of the year and can be beneficial throughout the year, especially if you suffer from allergies or live in an area with poor air quality. . During the summer, when pollution levels may be higher and windows are opened more frequently, they can help by filtering particles and contaminants that enter the interior space.

Eventually, about coolers these can be particularly useful during the summer season, to maintain a comfortable temperature at home and for sleeping, because it promotes better quality of sleep .

To use these electronic devices during the summer, the specialist gave some advice:

• Use devices as needed . For example, run air purifiers on days when the air quality index is low or during allergy season periods when outdoor pollen counts are high.
• Adjust your air conditioner settings to achieve the desired comfort level without excessive cooling, which can be unnecessary and unnecessary.
• Monitor indoor air conditions and use devices accordingly . Exceptionally high outdoor temperatures or days with poor air quality may require constant use of these devices.

Regarding the duration of use of these devices during sleep routines, it is advisable to consult a doctor, especially if you have a pre-existing respiratory disease, such as asthma with the aim that the devices are beneficial and do not cause adverse effects due to inappropriate use.

Theresa Schnorbach mentions that for people with breathing problems, these devices can be beneficial during sleep. Purifiers reduce the amount of irritable substances in the air which helps reduce the frequency and severity of asthma symptoms.

Regarding humidifiers, by adding humidity to the air, it prevents the respiratory tract from drying out. However, this can make asthma symptoms worse, so it is important to maintain correct levels.

Manuel Acuna. medical advisor from Exammedi, mentions that a temperature between 18°C ​​and 22°C facilitates the physiological decrease in body temperature during sleep and allows optimal rest. so the summer heat would prevent this.

Emma Chile, a scientist, mentions that adults and older people They should look for a slightly cool temperature . Children, for their part, should neither be too hot nor too cold.

Regarding the heat, notes that this may cause more frequent awakenings and lighter sleep altering the natural progression of sleep stages, particularly deep sleep and REM sleep, which are crucial for cognitive function, memory consolidation and physical recovery.

Finally, he details that excessive heat can lead to dehydration during the night, sleep disturbance and exacerbate the feeling of fatigue the next day.