This woman slept with air conditioning on and ended up in the hospital with a bad case of tonsillitis

While weather has been pretty dull this summer, we are also experiencing some really hot days. On those days, it can be tempting to sleep with the air conditioning or the fan on to keep cool at night. However, it can be dangerous to your health, as Liana Foster has experienced first-hand. Here's what happened to her.

Liana ended up in the hospital

24-year-old Liana Foster, from London, was on holiday in Turkey in July 2024 when she slept with the air conditioning on. The next day, she woke up with a sore throat, and she felt 'groggy'. After noticing white spots on her tonsils, Liana's mother took her to the nearest hospital, where she was treated with an IV drip for five hours. Liana explained to the New York Post:

I felt really groggy and got a sore throat as well. I was really shaky. I couldn’t eat or drink. I thought it was COVID again. My temperature was bad, my body was aching.

Doctors diagnosed her with a bad case of tonsillitis, which they say has been caused by the air conditioning. She is still being treated with antibiotics, and explained she already feels much better.

How to keep cool at night without air conditioning

During a heatwave, it is extremely important to stay cool, as extreme heat can cause damage to your brain, such as heat strokes. To avoid using air conditioning, or if you haven't got any, here are some tips to help you survive these long, warm nights.

1. Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water is the first and simplest way to stay cool, and to prevent any damage to your health. According to the CDC, you should drink a cup of water every 15-20 minutes during a heatwave.
2. Take a cold shower: For extra effectiveness, you can use peppermint soap, which brings your body temperature down. Doctors recommend showering before bed for a good night's sleep.
3. Put a wet wash cloth on your wrists and neck: Your wrists and neck are the most important heat receptors in the body, so cooling them down brings your whole body temperature down.
4. Stay in the dark: You should shut your curtains or blinds as they prevent direct sunlight from coming inside and heating up your home.
5. Sleep in breathable linens: Cotton sheets and blankets are the best option during a heatwave, as they allow your skin to breathe without keeping heat inside your bed.

Read more:

Why you shouldn't be sleeping with the lights on

Sleeping in your underwear can have disastrous impacts on your health

These sleep habits are unknowingly ageing you

Sources used:

New York Post: I slept with the air conditioner on and ended up in the hospital — here’s why you should be careful

CNN: How to cool down without AC

CDC: Heat Stress: Hydration