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Health Care

14 May 2025

7 mins

Sleeping in AC All Night: Comfort or Health Risk?In many parts of the world, air conditioning is more than a luxury; it’s a survival tool during hot and humid nights. But while it keeps you cool and helps you sleep better, is it actually good for your health? This blog explores the real impact of sleeping in an air-conditioned room all night. We’ll break down the benefits of using AC for sleep, the common side effects it can have on your body, and the lesser-known long-term health concerns that might surprise you. Whether you swear by cool nights or are rethinking your AC habits, this read will help you make a more informed decision. WHY DO PEOPLE LOVE SLEEPING IN AC? Let’s be real: sleeping in a cool room just feels better. Science agrees! A study [https://thesleepcharity.org.uk/information-support/adults/sleep-environment/] by the National Sleep Foundation found that the ideal sleep temperature is around 60–67°F (15–19°C). Why? Because your core body temperature naturally drops when you sleep, and a cooler room helps kickstart that process. Benefits of sleeping in AC include: * Faster sleep onset (you fall asleep quicker) * Fewer night-time awakenings * Deeper sleep quality * Better mood the next morning (because, yes, poor sleep = grumpy zombie) If you’ve been struggling with tossing and turning at night, AC might actually be your sleep BFF. WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS OF SLEEPING IN AC ALL NIGHT? While AC can enhance sleep comfort, improper use or lack of maintenance can lead to several health issues. 1. DRY SKIN AND EYES Air conditioners reduce humidity levels, leading to dry air that can strip moisture from the skin and eyes. "Prolonged exposure to air conditioning can dehydrate the skin, making it appear dull and lifeless," says Dr. Vidushi Jain [https://www.healthshots.com/beauty/skin-care/6-tips-to-protect-your-skin-from-the-side-effects-of-air-conditioners/], dermatologist and medical head at Dermalinks, Ghaziabad. Tips: * Apply a hydrating moisturiser before bed. * Use a humidifier to maintain room humidity. * Stay hydrated by drinking ample water throughout the day. 2. RESPIRATORY ISSUES Poorly maintained AC units can circulate dust, mould, and other allergens, exacerbating respiratory conditions [https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/respiratory-disorder/respiratory-disease-symptoms]. "Sleeping in air-conditioned rooms could cause respiratory illnesses. Those who suffer from asthma [https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/respiratory-disorder/all-you-need-to-know-about-asthma] and allergies and are vulnerable to cold air may be prone to such diseases," notes a health report. Tips: * Regularly clean or replace AC filters. * Ensure proper room ventilation. * Consider using air purifiers to reduce airborne allergens. 3. MUSCLE STIFFNESS AND BODY PAIN Direct exposure to cold air can lead to muscle stiffness or exacerbate existing musculoskeletal issues. "Sleeping in air-conditioned rooms could lead to muscle pain and stiffness," warns health experts. Tips: * Avoid direct airflow from the AC. * Maintain a moderate room temperature (24–26°C). * Use appropriate bedding to keep muscles warm. 4. SORE THROAT AND CONGESTION Dry air can irritate the throat and nasal passages, leading to discomfort. Dry air can also lead to congestion and difficulty breathing, especially for those who suffer from allergies or asthma. Tips: * Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air. * Stay hydrated to keep mucous membranes moist. * Avoid setting the AC to excessively low temperatures. IS AC GOOD FOR YOUR SKIN OR NOT? This is where things get juicy. Let’s answer this one directly: Is AC good for skin whitening? No, not really. That’s a myth. AC doesn’t “whiten” your skin, nor does it darken it, unless you’re dealing with sun exposure from being indoors next to windows (hello, UV rays). However, dry air from ACs can make your skin look dull, flaky, and dehydrated. Here’s how to protect your skin while sleeping in AC: * Apply a hydrating moisturiser [https://www.mrmed.in/otc/babe-stop-akn-mattifying-moisturiser-50ml] before bed * Keep a bowl of water or a humidifier in the room * Drink enough water (yes, even before sleep!) * Use a gentle cleanser to prevent a build-up of dust from recycled air So, while benefits of sleeping in AC for skin are more about feeling refreshed, you still need to do some skin-care homework to avoid the drying side effects. ARE THERE ANY LONG TERM EFFECTS OF SLEEPING WITH AC ON? Oh yes, especially if you’re doing it every night and ignoring maintenance. Potential long-term effects of sleeping with AC on include: * Worsened asthma or allergies (due to dust/mould accumulation) * Chronic dry skin [https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/skin-care/tips-dry-skin] or eczema flare-ups * Weakened immune responses from consistently low indoor air quality * Muscle stiffness if the room is too cold every night Pro tip? Keep your room temperature comfortable, not Antarctica-cold. Experts recommend setting your AC to around 24–26°C (75–78°F) for health-friendly sleep. DOES SLEEPING IN AC ALL NIGHT AFFECT KIDS AND ELDERLY MORE? Absolutely. Kids and seniors are more sensitive to temperature extremes. Babies can’t regulate body heat as well, and the elderly may already have respiratory issues that effects of sleeping with AC on could worsen. Some extra care: * Use soft blankets * Keep AC airflow away from the body * Maintain a moderate temp (not freezing) SO... IS SLEEPING IN AC GOOD OR BAD? Here’s the honest, no-nonsense answer: Sleeping in AC is both good and bad. It really depends on how you use it. The good: * Helps you sleep better, especially during hot, humid nights * Keeps you from overheating (and sweating through your sheets) * Can improve mood and sleep quality The not-so-good: * May dry out your skin and throat * Can worsen allergies if poorly maintained * Might lead to body stiffness if the temp is too cold or airflow is direct HOW TO KEEP YOUR ROOM COOL WITHOUT USING AC Not a fan of blasting the AC all night? Or maybe you just want to give your skin and sinuses a break? Good news: there are ways to keep your bedroom comfortably cool without relying on air conditioning. These hacks are perfect for cutting down on energy bills and reducing the health risks associated with sleeping in AC all night. 1. Use Cooling Curtains or Blinds Heat can sneak in through your windows, even at night. Blackout curtains or thermal blinds can block out sunlight during the day and insulate your room at night, helping it stay naturally cooler. 2. Cross Ventilation is King Open windows on opposite sides of the room or house to let air flow through naturally. Even better, place a bowl of ice in front of a table fan to create a DIY cool breeze effect. 3. Switch to Cotton Everything Bedsheets, pillowcases, nightwear; make sure they’re 100% cotton or linen. These fabrics are breathable and absorb sweat, unlike synthetics that trap heat. 4. Cool Your Pulse Points A quick trick: apply a cold compress or a damp cloth to your wrists, neck, or the backs of your knees before bed. It helps bring down your core body temperature quickly and signals your body it’s bedtime. 5. Unplug Heat-Emitting Devices Electronics generate heat even on standby mode. Unplug chargers, TVs, and laptops to reduce ambient warmth in the room. 6. Sleep Low, Sleep Cool Hot air rises, so sleeping closer to the ground (think floor mattress or a low bed frame) can feel significantly cooler, especially during peak summer. 7. DIY Cooling Packs Fill a hot water bag with cold water or freeze a sock filled with rice to make a homemade cold pack. Place it near your feet or under your pillow for some chill magic. 8. Hydrate Inside Out Drink a glass of water before bed, and consider lightly misting your face and arms with rose water or a cooling spray to stay fresh through the night. EXPERT TIPS TO SLEEP SMART IN AC Let’s leave you with some real-talk tips to make your AC use healthier and smarter: 1. Clean that filter every 2–4 weeks. Dirt, bacteria, and mould, these things love AC filters. 2. Use a humidifier or bowl of water. This balances the moisture in the room so your skin and sinuses don’t suffer. 3. Dress smart. Don’t wear full-sleeved woollies, but don’t go full beach mode either. Cotton pyjamas are your friend. 4. Adjust temperature, not your blanket stack. Keep the room around 24–26°C. Don’t freeze your room and then hide under 3 quilts. 5. Point airflow away from your body. Your AC isn’t a wind tunnel. Let it cool the room, not just you. 6. Moisturise and hydrate. Your skin will thank you in the morning. IT'S NOT THE AC, IT'S HOW YOU USE IT Much like chocolate cake or binge-watching K-dramas, AC is great in moderation and with good habits. The comfort of sleeping in AC is real and science-backed. But the effects of sleeping with AC on for long durations without precautions can cause avoidable issues. So next time someone asks, “Sleeping in AC is good or bad?” you’ll know the answer isn’t black or white. It’s 100% about balance, maintenance, and listening to your body. Sleep cool, sleep smart and don’t forget to clean that filter! FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS) Q.1) Can we sleep in AC during fever? Yes, but with caution. When you have a fever, your body already feels like a toaster oven. A cool room can be soothing and help reduce body temperature. However, don’t go overboard and turn your room into a freezer; that can backfire and make you feel worse. Keep the AC temp around 25–26°C and make sure the airflow isn’t directly on you. Q.2) Can sleeping in AC cause sore throat? Yes, especially if the air is too dry. Your throat and nasal passages can get irritated if you breathe dry, cold air all night. A humidifier or even a damp towel hung in the room can help keep moisture levels balanced. Q.3) Does sleeping in AC cause body pain? If you’re waking up with achy shoulders or a stiff neck, your AC might be to blame. Cold air can cause muscle tightness, especially if it’s blasting directly at you or your room is too cold for too long. Adjust the louvres, aim the airflow away, and try not to sleep right under it. Q.4) Does air conditioner make skin dark? Nope, but it can make your skin look dull. There's no direct link between sleeping in AC and skin darkening. However, dry and dehydrated skin tends to appear more tired and less radiant, which people sometimes mistake for “getting darker.” PEOPLE ALSO READ… * What Are The Chronic Respiratory Diseases? [https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/respiratory-disorder/chronic-respiratory-diseases] * Tips for Drinking Water For Healthy Kidneys [https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/nephrology/drinking-water-health-kidneys] * 5 Skin Care Myths You Need To Know [https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/skin-care/skin-care-myths] REFERENCES 1. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/sleeping-with-ac-on-6-health-issues-it-may-be-causing/photostory/109032246.cms?picid=109032315 [https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/sleeping-with-ac-on-6-health-issues-it-may-be-causing/photostory/109032246.cms?picid=109032315] 2. https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/ss/slideshow-what-ac-does-to-your-body [https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/ss/slideshow-what-ac-does-to-your-body] 3. https://www.jstor.org/stable/24997476 [https://www.jstor.org/stable/24997476]

Dr. Tejashwin Adiga

Why Freezing Eggs Is A Smart Option For Preserving Fertility In The Future?

Women's Health

2 May 2025

8 mins

Why Freezing Eggs Is A Smart Option For Preserving Fertility In The Future?More and more women today are postponing motherhood, not because they don’t want kids, but because they want the right time, the right partner, or simply the space to build their lives first. But biology? It doesn’t always wait. That’s where egg freezing steps in, not as a last resort, but as a smart, proactive choice. In India, conversations around fertility preservation are finally picking up. What was once whispered about in fertility clinics is now openly discussed among friends, doctors, and even in boardrooms. From rising interest in metro cities to celebrities sharing their stories, egg freezing is no longer a hush-hush topic; it’s a tool many women are exploring to take control of their future. In this blog, we’ll break down what egg freezing really means and if you’ve ever wondered whether it could be the right choice for you (or someone you know), keep reading. You might be surprised at just how empowering it can be. WHAT DOES FREEZING EGGS MEAN? Let’s simplify. Freezing eggs, also known as oocyte cryopreservation, is a method where a woman’s eggs are harvested, frozen, and stored for future use. When she’s ready to get pregnant (maybe years later), those eggs can be thawed, fertilised with sperm, and implanted into the uterus. It’s like hitting the pause button on your fertility, but in a totally safe, medically-backed way. WHY ARE SO MANY WOMEN OPTING FOR THIS? A woman’s fertility declines with age, especially after 35. Yet, the average age of motherhood is rising. Careers, education, finances, and not finding the right partner (ugh, dating apps) are all valid reasons women choose to wait. And the numbers are speaking loud and clear. A study [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38164426/] analysing data from the National Family Health Survey-5 (2019–21) found that the prevalence of infertility in India among women married for at least five years is approximately 18.7 per 1,000 women. HOW DOES EGG FREEZING WORK? You’re not alone if you’re wondering how egg freezing works. It's a pretty common question. Here's a simple breakdown of the egg freezing process: 1. Hormonal stimulation: You’ll take hormone injections for 10–14 days to stimulate your ovaries to produce multiple eggs. 2. Egg retrieval: Once your eggs are mature, a doctor collects them using a minor procedure under sedation. 3. Freezing: The eggs are frozen using a method called vitrification and stored safely in a lab. That’s it! Think of it as your fertility insurance policy. IS THERE A BEST AGE TO FREEZE EGGS? Absolutely. The egg freezing age limit varies, but fertility experts agree that the best age to freeze eggs is between 27 and 35 years. Why? Because younger eggs = better quality = higher chances of success later on. You can freeze your eggs up to age 40 (some clinics accept older), but the chances of a successful pregnancy decrease as you age. Quality matters more than quantity here. Dr. Prachi Benara [https://birlafertility.com/blogs/best-age-to-freeze-your-eggs], a seasoned fertility expert, emphasises, "The best age for freezing your eggs is generally before 35, as egg quality and quantity decline significantly after this age." Supporting this, a study [https://link.springer.com/epdf/10.1007/s10815-020-01791-w?sharing_token=5aJMPlNNTd2Lpy55EKMYUfe4RwlQNchNByi7wbcMAY52MkJi-03fy3R8QlAUPDUXI7F-oi_YXVldV0sf3AKhF6vLMpipo1fUorXJhOToCt5qlLs07g20-OrtikK0T3uGl7gWuuwJnFR_oK_wErpuO9oyTnBD-c-caiJgQ7uj3YE=] published in the Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics indicates that a woman under 35 will need approximately nine eggs to achieve a 70% chance of having at least one live birth. However, if you're trying to conceive in your mid to late 30s, you may need twice as many eggs to achieve that same 70% success rate. [https://www.cofertility.com/freeze-learn/a-breakdown-of-egg-freezing-success-rates-by-age?utm_source=chatgpt.com] Moreover, data from FertilityIQ [https://www.fertilityiq.com/fertilityiq/articles/how-many-frozen-eggs-guarantees-success] reveals that women who stored 10 eggs after the age of 35 had a 30% success rate, whereas women under 35 with the same number of eggs had twice that success rate. In summary, while egg freezing is possible up to age 40, the optimal window is between 27 and 35 years, where the balance between egg quality and quantity offers the highest chances of future pregnancy success. IS EGG FREEZING PAINFUL? We won’t sugarcoat it. The idea of injecting hormones into your belly and undergoing a procedure can feel intimidating. But according to most women, it’s uncomfortable, not painful. You might experience bloating, mild cramping, or mood swings, think PMS on steroids (literally). But it's temporary and manageable. Dr. Rajendra Shitole [https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/parenting/getting-pregnant/as-interest-in-egg-freezing-increases-busting-a-few-myths-about-this-assisted-reproduction-method/photostory/101784359.cms], IVF Consultant and Endoscopic Surgeon at DPU Private Super Speciality Hospital, Pimpri, Pune, says, “Egg freezing is generally considered safe and has become a routine procedure.” HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO FREEZE EGGS IN INDIA? Let’s talk about the cost because egg freezing is an empowering choice, but it doesn’t come cheap. The cost of egg freezing in India typically ranges between ₹1,00,000 to ₹1,50,000 for the initial cycle. This includes ovarian stimulation drugs, hormone injections, ultrasound monitoring, and the egg retrieval procedure. The medications alone can account for about ₹50,000 to ₹80,000, depending on your hormonal response and the clinic’s protocol. According to a study published in the Journal of Human Reproductive Sciences (JHRS), the average cost for elective egg freezing in India is around ₹1.2 lakh per cycle, though this can vary widely between metros and tier-2 cities. After retrieval, the eggs are frozen and stored in liquid nitrogen tanks at -196°C. Storage fees generally range from ₹10,000 to ₹25,000 per year, depending on the clinic. So if you freeze your eggs at age 30 and choose to store them for 5 years, you’re looking at a total of approximately ₹2 to ₹3.5 lakhs over that period. WHERE CAN YOU FREEZE EGGS IN INDIA? Many top-tier hospitals and fertility centres across India offer this service, including: * Apollo Fertility (multiple cities) * Cloudnine Fertility (Pan India) * Nova IVF Fertility (30+ locations) * Fortis La Femme (Delhi, Bengaluru) * Morpheus IVF & Medicover Fertility These clinics follow international cryopreservation protocols and are staffed by reproductive endocrinologists, embryologists, and counsellors to support your fertility journey. ARE THERE ANY SUBSIDIES OR SCHEMES? While egg freezing is not yet covered by insurance in most cases, some clinics offer EMIs or financial plans to make it more accessible. A few corporates (like Google, Meta, and Apple globally) also offer egg freezing benefits to employees, and this trend is slowly catching on in India, especially in the tech and finance sectors. As of now, no government subsidy or Ayushman Bharat scheme directly covers elective egg freezing, though fertility preservation for cancer patients [https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/cancer-care/fertility-and-pregnancy-during-breast-cancer] may be partially covered in certain public healthcare programs or NGOs. DOES FREEZING EGGS AFFECT FUTURE FERTILITY? On the contrary, it preserves it. Freezing your eggs doesn’t reduce your chances of conceiving naturally in the future. In fact, it can improve your odds by giving you access to younger, healthier eggs later on. Dr. Mallika Solanki [https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/parenting/pregnancy/is-freezing-eggs-the-right-move-for-future-moms/articleshow/114422010.cms], Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, explains, “Freezing eggs does not harm the remaining ovarian reserve or reproductive function, and many women successfully conceive using frozen eggs without long-term complications.” WHAT IS THE BIGGEST RISK OF EGG FREEZING? Egg freezing is considered a safe and effective fertility preservation method, but it’s not without potential risks. The most serious, though rare, complication is ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). This occurs when the ovaries over-respond to fertility medications, causing them to swell and leak fluid. While mild OHSS (abdominal bloating, nausea) affects up to 33% of women, severe cases marked by rapid weight gain, shortness of breath, or blood clots occur in less than 1%. Other possible side effects include: * Abdominal bloating * Breast tenderness * Temporary weight gain * Mood swings * Constipation [https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/gastroenterology/types-of-constipation] * Mild pelvic discomfort Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) [https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/womens-health/pcos-symptoms-treatment] may be more prone to complications. Fortunately, most symptoms are short-lived, and advancements in hormone protocols have significantly reduced severe outcomes. Doctors now tailor medication doses, monitor patients closely, and may use a “freeze-only” strategy to minimise OHSS risk. Staying hydrated and following your doctor’s guidance during stimulation is essential for a safe and smooth recovery. SO… IS IT ACTUALLY SUCCESSFUL? Good question! The success of egg freezing depends on several factors, such as age at freezing, number of eggs retrieved, and overall health. But here are some optimistic stats: * Women under 35 who freeze 10–15 eggs have a 60–70% chance of live birth later. * Success rates are improving thanks to advanced vitrification techniques. In 2022 [https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2022/05/220526181147.htm], a study published in Fertility and Sterility reported that women who froze eggs before 35 and used them later had similar success rates to IVF using fresh eggs [https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/health-care/complete-guide-ivf-treatment-medicines]. That's huge! WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF EGG FREEZING? Egg freezing, or oocyte cryopreservation, offers women the opportunity to preserve their fertility for future family planning. While it provides several advantages, it's essential to consider the associated risks and limitations. Advantages: * Preservation of Fertility: Freezing eggs at a younger age allows women to use healthier eggs later, potentially reducing the risk of age-related infertility. * Reproductive Autonomy: Provides flexibility for women to delay childbearing due to personal, professional, or medical reasons. * Medical Necessity: Beneficial for women undergoing treatments like chemotherapy [https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/cancer-care/chemotherapy-breast-cancer] that may affect fertility. Disadvantages: * Cost: The procedure can be expensive, and insurance coverage varies. * Medical Risks: Involves hormone injections and egg retrieval, which carry risks such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). * No Guarantee: While success rates have improved, there's no certainty of achieving pregnancy from frozen eggs. It's crucial to consult with a fertility specialist to understand the potential outcomes and make an informed decision. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS) Q. 1) Should you freeze your eggs? Egg freezing can be a good option for women who want to delay childbearing for personal, professional, or medical reasons. It allows you to preserve your fertility at a younger age, ensuring healthier eggs for future use. However, it’s important to consider the costs, medical risks, and the fact that it doesn’t guarantee a successful pregnancy. Q. 2) What is the best age to freeze eggs? The best age to freeze eggs is between 27 and 35 years, as this is when egg quality and quantity are optimal. Freezing eggs earlier increases the chances of success, as eggs are healthier and more viable for future use. Q. 3) How successful is egg freezing? Women under 35 who freeze their eggs have up to a 70% success rate if enough eggs are retrieved and stored. Success rates decline as women age, particularly after 38, as egg quality diminishes over time. Q. 4) Why Did Priyanka Chopra Freeze Her Eggs? Priyanka Chopra froze her eggs in her early 30s on the advice of her mother, a physician, so she could focus on her career without the pressure of fertility concerns. This is a growing trend among women, especially in India, who are planning their futures and choosing to delay motherhood. Q. 5) What Are the Benefits of Freezing Your Eggs? Egg freezing allows women to preserve fertility for future family planning, reducing age-related infertility concerns. It provides reproductive flexibility, especially for those facing medical treatments or those who aren’t ready for children but want to ensure options in the future. Q. 6) Does freezing eggs stop periods? No, freezing eggs does not stop your periods. Your menstrual cycle and ovulation will continue as usual during the egg retrieval process. Only the eggs that would naturally be released that month are harvested, and it does not impact your overall egg count or cause early menopause [https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/womens-health/manage-menopause-symptoms]. IT’S YOUR TIMELINE, YOUR RULES. Egg freezing offers women the opportunity to take control of their reproductive future, providing flexibility to delay motherhood without sacrificing fertility. While it can be an empowering option for those focusing on their careers, personal goals, or medical treatments, it’s important to weigh the costs, risks, and success rates. Consulting with a fertility specialist is essential to make an informed decision tailored to your unique needs. Take charge of your timeline and ensure you have the options available when you’re ready. READ ALSO * MrMed Women's Health Library [https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/womens-health] * Can Diabetes Cause Infertility in Women? [https://www.mrmed.in/health-library/womens-health/can-diabetes-cause-infertility-in-females] REFERENCES 1. https://www.rcog.org.uk/for-the-public/browse-our-patient-information/ovarian-hyperstimulation-syndrome/ [https://www.rcog.org.uk/for-the-public/browse-our-patient-information/ovarian-hyperstimulation-syndrome/] 2. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/news/2019/egg-consumption-linked-higher-risk-heart-disease-and-death [https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/news/2019/egg-consumption-linked-higher-risk-heart-disease-and-death] 3. https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2022/07/having-kids-later-life [https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2022/07/having-kids-later-life] 4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25881876/ [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25881876/]

Dr. Tejashwin Adiga