Be it in houses or on the internet, you must have seen people using humidifiers. These products are a rage in the market – not only because people are using them but because of the supposed health benefits of humidifiers. Consequently, you must have considered using them too.
But as much as you must have been convinced about using them, you must also be somewhere sceptical. Are they worth the investment? Are they really good for your health? Are there any side effects? There may be a hundred questions on your mind if you have never used a humidifier before.
This blog will offer you some clarity and tell you if they are really worth the investment.
But first, brushing the basics
What does a humidifier do?
To put it simply, a humidifier increases the level of humidity in the air. These products release water vapour into the air (or steam). They can be used to prevent dryness in the air. Dryness can irritate the throat, lips, nose and skin.
Benefits of humidifiers
There are certain potential benefits of humidifiers you must know:
May soothe allergies
The best way to prevent allergies is to stay away from triggers. But just in case that is not possible or you don’t know your allergy triggers, humidifiers may come to your rescue. When you inhale vapours produced by humidifiers, it soothes the tissue in your nose and throat, ultimately offering you relief from common symptoms like runny nose and dry and itchy throat.
However, you must ensure that maintaining a balance is integral. If the level is too high, in other words, excess humidity, it may cause the spread of moulds and dust mites that can worsen allergies.
Can they help with asthma?
Yes, a humidifier can help with asthma, given your asthma attacks are triggered by dry air. Just so you know a humidifier will not cure your asthma, but it will just help with the symptoms. Once again, you have to ensure the humidity is maintained at the optimal level, otherwise, your asthma symptoms may be worsened. You must also ensure that the humidifier is clean to prevent the spread of infections and asthma triggers.
May help with snoring
Well, if you are sick and tired of people snoring around you or you yourself snore, you may consider investing in a humidifier. However, you must note that a humidifier may only be effective if respiratory issues such as nasal congestion are the cause of snoring. The device can help by loosening the mucus that blocks your airways.
If the cause of snoring is different for you, a humidifier may not help. In this case, you must talk to a healthcare professional who may provide you with a solution.
May help with dry skin
If you want clear and radiant skin, you must prevent dryness at all costs as it can make the skin look dry and cause acne. We’re sure you don’t want that. Hence, you may consider investing in a humidifier as it can provide moisture to your dry skin.
May provide relief from sinus
You may suffer from respiratory issues and cold and flu from time to time if you are suffering from sinus. A humidifier may provide relief from sinus symptoms such as congestion and stuffy nose. Dry air can irritate nasal passages, producing more mucus that can block the passage and restrict the flow of oxygen to the lungs. Humidifiers may help by adding moisture to the air, relieving the irritation and thinning out mucus.
However, you must note that the results of multiple research are not so convincing and conclusive. However, humidifiers have provided relief to some patients. You may use it and see if it works for you.
Are there any risks?
Yes, there are risks if you use dirty humidifiers, tap water in it, or if your humidifier produces excessive levels of moisture. These practices can worsen asthma and allergy symptoms.
There are some other risks as well including steam burns and the growth of dust mites and moulds on ceilings and walls.
Closing thoughts
Humidifiers can indeed offer various health benefits when used appropriately. Maintaining optimal humidity levels in indoor environments can alleviate respiratory issues, prevent dry skin, and promote overall well-being. However, it is crucial to strike a balance and avoid excessive humidity, which may lead to mould growth and other potential health hazards. Regular cleaning and proper maintenance of humidifiers are essential to ensure their effectiveness and safety. You must also consider consulting healthcare professionals and following manufacturer guidelines to make informed decisions for a healthier and more comfortable environment.
