
The use of electric fans delay elevations in heart rate and core temperature of young adults exposed to 108°F. But, electric fans could be harmful to elderly, claims a new study.
Researchers from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, examined whether electric fan use would delay elevations in heart rate and core temperature of elderly adults exposed to extreme heat and humidity. The study was conducted by Craig G. Crandall, Ph.D., of the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and his colleagues.
It remains unknown if fans are effective in vulnerable populations, such as the elderly who display altered cardiovascular and thermoregulatory responses during heat exposure. This study included three men and six women volunteers (average age, 68 years). Wearing shorts (men) or shorts and a sports bra (women), participants sat in a chamber maintained at 108°F.
The researchers found that fan use resulted in greater heart rate and core temperature. "Although differences were small, their cumulative effect may become clinically important with fan use during more prolonged heat exposure. Fan use elevates sweat loss in young adults. This was not observed in elderly adults, suggesting that age-related impairments in sweating capacity possibly limit the effectiveness of electric fans. Overall, this preliminary study indicates that electric fans may be detrimental for attenuating cardiovascular and thermal strain of elderly adults during heat waves."
The study appears in JAMA.
Source: Eurekalert
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