Why does using an electric fan in summer cause body aches?

Nov 17, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, body aches from using an electric fan during summer may be related to factors such as chilling, metabolic disorders, viral colds, gout, or rheumatoid arthritis. Patients are advised to undergo symptomatic treatment as directed by a physician. If a patient fails to keep warm properly while using an electric fan in summer, it may lead to bodily chilling and subsequent muscle spasms, resulting in the aforementioned symptoms.

Generally, body aches from using an electric fan in summer may be related to factors such as chilling, metabolic disorders, viral colds, gout, and rheumatoid arthritis. Patients are advised to seek symptomatic treatment under medical guidance. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Chilling

If patients do not keep warm while using an electric fan in summer, the body may become chilled, leading to muscle spasms and resulting in the aforementioned symptoms. It is recommended that patients maintain adequate warmth and may also use methods such as massage or manipulation to promote local blood circulation, which can help relieve pain.

2. Metabolic Disorders

If a patient uses an electric fan immediately after heavy sweating, the skin pores may rapidly contract, preventing internal heat from dissipating effectively and causing metabolic disturbances, thereby producing the above symptoms. Patients are advised to reduce the duration of fan use; appropriate local massage may also provide relief.

3. Viral Cold

Prolonged exposure to an electric fan may chill the body and trigger a viral infection, characterized by symptoms such as coughing, fever, and runny nose, along with generalized body aches. Patients may take medications such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules or acetaminophen tablets as directed by a physician.

4. Gout

In patients who already have gout, using an electric fan may lead to increased uric acid levels, triggering the aforementioned symptoms. Under a doctor’s guidance, patients may take medications such as indomethacin tablets or diclofenac potassium tablets for treatment.

5. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Patients with pre-existing rheumatoid arthritis may experience disease flare-ups or worsening symptoms due to cold air stimulation from electric fans in summer, leading to the described discomfort. It is recommended that patients take medications such as methotrexate tablets or leflunomide tablets under medical supervision.

In addition, these symptoms may also be associated with hypothyroidism. If patients experience any discomfort, they should promptly visit a hospital for diagnosis and treatment to avoid delays in managing their condition.