How do Humidifiers Help People Who Have Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic disease in which the inside walls of the airways become swollen and sore. Every day almost 30,000 people suffer from an asthma attack and over 5,000 visits the emergency room as a result. Controlling humidity levels plays a vital role in relieving and managing asthma symptoms, which raises the question of how do humidifiers help people who have asthma?

Cool and dry air irritates the nerves in the lungs that cause constriction and inflammation of airways. Contrary to that, humidified and warm air relaxes the lungs and allows more air to make its way to the lungs. Have a look at Wereviews for the best humidifiers for asthma.

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How Humidifiers Relive Asthma Symptoms?

By using humidifiers, one can limit the number of asthma attacks and can keep the symptoms of asthma in check within the home. Humidifiers provide moist air at the desired temperature precise for the asthma patient which makes it the most effective way to keep the airways free and also the most natural one. Humidifiers help to soothe airways by dispensing moisture back into the air that allows easier breathing. If an asthma patient wants to breathe easily without worrying about dosage, then a humidifier is the best remedy.

With a humidifier, you can better manage the asthma symptoms at home. It helps to relieve asthma symptoms in the following ways.

  • The smoke of cigarette triggers an asthma attack, even the smell of it on clothing manifest unfavorable outcomes. Buying a humidifier with air filter can help you in that as it reduces all the effects of second-hand and third-hand smoking.
  • Most humidifiers have filters built into them, which filter out most of the allergens that can cause an asthma attack.
  • Heavy fragrances also cause discomfort for asthma patient. A humidifier with the air purifier can reduce the effects of fragrances on the respiratory track.
  • With the advanced technology, there are some humidifiers in the market designed to kill certain germs which reduce the chances of catching a potentially dangerous infection.

Types of Humidifier

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For enjoying the benefits of a humidifier fully, one needs to make sure that he or she is purchasing the right one. Humidifiers have different features installed in them and you need to choose the one which suits you the best. Below you can have a closer look at the most common types of humidifiers for asthma.

Warm Mist Vaporizer

A warm mist humidifier creates steam and then cools it down to such a point that the outcome is not as hot and is slightly heavier; hence, it is a warm mist. It is a useful humidifier for asthma if the humidity level needs to be as exact as possible, specially when it is paired with heating or central air.

Steam Vaporizer

This type of humidifier heats the water until it reaches the boiling point and then the steam is passed out in the air. A warm humid atmosphere is beneficial for asthma patients making this humidifier an ideal choice. But as it uses heating, so the tanks need to be kept clean.

Cool Mist Humidifier

Cool mist humidifiers create a cool mist and thus keep the air feel cooler and comfortable. Heating is not used in this type which makes it energy efficient type.

The effectiveness of each model is dependent on the desired temperature of the humidity. The size of your room also affects your choice of humidifier.

Maintenance is the Key for Controlling Asthma Symptoms

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The humidifier is a useful device that comforts the breathing, but for obtaining the maximum benefits, maintenance is the key.

Changing Water Regularly

Changing the water for humidifier regularly is vital because standing water not only promotes the growth of mildew and mold but is also the breeding ground for specific pathogens and bacteria. The airways of asthma patients are too sensitive and any allergies can trigger the attack. So, make sure that the water in the humidifier is fresh and clean.

Humidity Level Management of a Room

Low humidity levels are associated with dry skin, itchy eyes, irritated nasal passages and dry throat. Meanwhile, high humidity levels are also uncomfortable as it causes condensation on the walls and other surfaces. With time, high humidity levels promote the growth of mold and bacteria. That is why it is essential to maintain balanced humidity levels in the room which is in between 30 to 50 percent. For this, you can use a hygrometer to maintain the ideal humidity level in the room.

Keep it Clean

Humidifiers for asthma should not be left with water when not in use. When the humidifier is not being used, empty it and rinse it thoroughly. Before storing it, make sure that it is fully dry. Cleaning also removes many harmful chemicals that might trigger asthma attacks.

Use Filtered Water

Tap water contains bacteria, virus and also some traces of minerals like magnesium and calcium. When the water in the humidifier evaporates, these traces gather at the bottom of the tank and contaminate it. With the passing time, these traces form a hard coating at the bottom of the tank and inside the walls. These minerals pollute the water in the humidifier and the air as well. Using filtered water prevent the mineral deposit and keeps the air clean and fresh with moderate humidity.

Safety Tips for Using Humidifiers

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Humidifiers are simple machines which are easy to use and there is no danger associated in their use. But one should always take cautions to use the humidifiers safely.

  • Avoid using warm mist or steam vaporizers in areas with kids or pets.
  • Place the humidifier away from the walls and furniture. It prevents the growth of mold and water damage when humidifier aims steam.
  • If you notice damp floors, water beading out on windows or damp walls, immediately check the humidity levels and stop using the humidifier.
  • While using steam vaporizers or warm mist humidifier, keep it in the area which is less in use as there are chances of knocking over.
  • Before buying a humidifier always keep in mind the size of your room as humidifiers meant for larger spaces can damage your small room.

Conclusion

By choosing the right humidifier for your environment, taking proper care of it and following the safety tips, you will surely see the wonderful benefits of humidifiers for asthma patients.