Can Electric Blankets Cause Heart Problems?

Chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness these heart problem symptoms can turn everyday life into a constant worry. 

Many dismiss them as stress or fatigue, but ignoring the warning signs could lead to a heart attack, stroke, or worse. 

And now, a surprising question emerges: could your electric blanket be adding to the risk? Let’s uncover the truth.

• Use Modern Blankets Safely: Ensure your electric blanket is undamaged and follow manufacturer instructions.
  
  

• Avoid Overheating: Turn off your blanket before sleeping to prevent extra strain on your heart.
  
  

• Watch for Warning Signs: Stop using the blanket if it smells burning, overheats, or doesn’t heat properly.
  
  

• Replace Old Blankets: Swap out blankets older than 10 years to reduce fire and safety risks.
  
  

• Protect Your Skin and Health: Discontinue use if the blanket causes skin irritation or affects heart comfort.

Heart disease encompasses a variety of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. It can lead to severe health complications if left untreated, but many cases are preventable or manageable with proper care. The Mayo Clinic identifies several primary causes of heart disease, including:

• Coronary artery disease: Caused by the buildup of plaque in the heart's arteries, restricting blood flow.
  
  

• Heart muscle scarring: Often due to previous heart attacks or chronic conditions like cardiomyopathy.
  
  

• Genetic factors: Family history of heart disease increases the risk.
  
  

• High blood pressure: Strains the heart and can lead to atherosclerosis and heart failure.
  
  

• Infections: Severe infections, including those outside of the heart, may trigger heart disease.
  
  

• Thyroid problems: An overactive or underactive thyroid can lead to heart issues.
  
  

• Rheumatic fever: Damage to heart valves from a previous infection.
  
  

• Lifestyle factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol, and substance use can contribute significantly.
  
  

• Abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmias): Irregular heartbeats that can lead to heart failure or stroke.
  
  

• Aging: As the heart ages, arteries become narrower, and heart function may decline.
  
  

Heart disease can severely impact daily life, causing fatigue, chest pain, shortness of breath, and reduced physical capability. 

Fortunately, lifestyle changes like a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management can help control risk factors, making a significant difference in preventing or managing the condition.

Electric blankets are generally safe for people with heart conditions if used properly. Modern, undamaged blankets pose minimal risk, but prolonged overheating can stress the heart, affect blood pressure, or trigger irregular heartbeats. 

Always follow manufacturer instructions, preheat and turn off before sleeping, replace blankets over 10 years old, and stop use if wires are damaged, it overheats, or causes skin irritation.

Electric blankets are safe for people with heart conditions, including those with pacemakers and ICDs, as long as the blanket is modern, undamaged, and used correctly. 

Overheating can stress the heart, so preheat and turn it off before sleeping. Always follow manufacturer instructions and consult your doctor if unsure.

• Extra Strain on the Heart: Prolonged heat from electric blankets can put additional stress on the heart, potentially affecting cardiovascular function.
  
  

• Blood Pressure Fluctuations: Regular use of electric blankets may lead to higher or less stable blood pressure, which can be risky over time.
  
  

• Risk of Irregular Heartbeats: Continuous heat exposure could increase the chance of developing arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), which might be dangerous.
  
  

• Weakened Blood Circulation: Heat exposure can cause blood vessels to stiffen, leading to less effective blood circulation over time.
  
  

• Higher Risks for Older Adults and Those with Heart Disease: People with pre-existing heart conditions or older adults face greater health risks when using electric blankets long-term.
  
  

• Disruption of Natural Temperature Regulation: Continuous heat from electric blankets can interfere with the body's natural ability to regulate temperature, leading to potential health issues.

If you notice frayed or damaged wires on your electric blanket, stop using it immediately. Exposed wires pose a fire risk and could cause electrical shocks or burns. 

A frayed wire can lead to overheating and fires. It's safer to dispose of the blanket than to risk further damage. Replace any electric blanket with damaged wires right away to ensure safety.

If your electric blanket starts emitting a burning smell, it’s important to stop using it immediately. 

This could indicate an electrical malfunction or overheating, which presents a serious fire hazard. 

Unplug it right away and check the wiring for any visible damage. If the smell continues or the blanket doesn't work properly afterward, it’s safest to dispose of it. Never ignore signs of malfunction, as they could lead to more severe issues.

An electric blanket that doesn't heat properly is a safety concern. Cold or uneven areas could signal a malfunction, potentially leading to fire or electrical shock. 

If it's not working correctly, stop using it and either replace it or have it repaired professionally for your safety.

If your electric blanket trips the circuit breaker, stop using it immediately. This likely indicates a fault in the wiring or heating elements, which can pose a fire risk. If the issue persists, it’s safer to replace the blanket.

An electric blanket should heat evenly across its surface. If certain areas overheat while others remain cool, it indicates a malfunction. 

Uneven heating can cause skin burns or damage to the blanket’s electrical components. If you notice hot spots, stop using the blanket immediately. Overheating could eventually lead to a fire, so replacing it is safer than risking further issues.

If your electric blanket is more than 10 years old, it’s time to consider replacing it. Experts recommend swapping out old blankets because over time, the wiring can become damaged, cables may fray, and the fabric can weaken. 

These issues aren’t just inconvenient, they pose serious safety risks. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International, heating pads and electric blankets are responsible for around 500 fires each year, with most of these incidents involving blankets over a decade old. 

In fact, electric blankets contribute to roughly 5,000 residential fires annually in the United States, causing significant property damage, severe injuries, and sometimes even fatalities. 

Using a worn-out blanket increases the risk of overheating or electrical fires, making it a hazard in your home. 

To stay safe, check your electric blanket for any signs of wear and don’t hesitate to replace it if it’s old or damaged, your safety is worth it.

If your electric blanket causes skin irritation, such as itching, redness, or rashes, it may no longer be safe to use. 

Overheating can dry out your skin or cause allergic reactions. High heat settings can irritate sensitive skin. 

If discomfort occurs, stop using the blanket immediately. Continuing use can worsen the irritation, so replace the blanket or lower the heat settings to prevent further issues.

Modern electric blankets are safe for pacemaker users due to advanced pacemaker shielding and the low-level electromagnetic fields they generate. 

To be cautious, avoid placing the blanket directly over the pacemaker area. Always follow manufacturer guidelines and consult your doctor if any symptoms occur.

Electric blankets are safe for most, but overheating can stress the heart, especially for those with heart conditions. 

To stay safe, avoid high settings, never fold the blanket while in use, and don’t sleep with it on. Other heat therapies, like warm baths or heating pads, can also soothe muscles and improve circulation.