Can a Humidifier Help My Asthma?
posted: Oct. 07, 2020.
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Along with medication, there are certain lifestyle modifications that those with asthma can put in place to help limit exposure and flare-ups. Everything from dry air to humidity can leave you wheezing or triggering asthma symptoms, so you may be wondering whether or not a humidifier could help you. Before getting a humidifier there are a few things that asthma and allergy specialists can recommend to ensure that you get the most from this home product.
The Pros of a Humidifier for Asthma
What makes asthma so dangerous is that inflamed airways start to constrict, making it difficult to breathe. Some patients with asthma have found a marked improvement in their asthma symptoms through the simple use of a humidifier in their home.
A humidifier is a device that emits moist air at a designated temperature. This can prevent the air in your home from drying out, which can trigger symptoms. Plus, it can also prevent the airways from drying out, as dry airways can cause further breathing issues. It’s also a natural way to improve the quality of the air to improve asthma symptoms without resorting to over-the-counter medications and remedies.
Choosing a Humidifier
There are a variety of types and styles of humidifiers on the market. Which one is the right one for you? The three main types are steam, warm mist, and cool mist. Steam vaporizers are the most commonly used type of humidifier for those with asthma, but it’s important to clean them properly and often to prevent mold or bacteria from developing.
A warm mist humidifier may be a good option for you if you are very sensitive to temperature changes and need the humidity to be at a certain temperature. This option can be a great complement to central air or heating. As the name suggests, a cool-mist humidifier will make the air in the room cooler and can often target a larger room area than other models. Since it can be difficult to choose the right humidifier, it’s a good idea to talk with your asthma doctor first.
Whether you want to sit down and discuss humidifier options, or you are having trouble getting your asthma symptoms under control with your current medications, there are many reasons to turn to an asthma and allergy doctor for answers and care.