Six humidifier uses and their benefits
Some people experience respiratory symptoms in the summer
months, when the weather is hot, and the air contains more allergens. Air
conditioners and fans can circulate dry air through the room, and air
conditioners remove any moisture from the air. A humidifier may be beneficial
during this season.
However, people are more likely to benefit from a
humidifier in the cold months, when cold air dries out the lungs, nose, and
lips. Also, some types of central heating can dry out the air indoors.
Benefits of a humidifier may include:
1.
Preventing influenza
Authors
of one study noted
that humidifiers might reduce the risk of catching the flu.
After adding the influenza virus
to the air with a simulated cough, researchers found that humidity levels above
40 percent rapidly deactivated virus particles, making them much less likely to
be infectious.
2.
Making a cough more productive
Dry air can cause a person to have a dry, unproductive
cough. Adding humidity to the air can get more moisture into the airways, which
can make a cough more productive. A productive cough releases trapped or sticky
phlegm.
3.
Reducing snoring
Increasing the amount of moisture in the air can also
reduce snoring. If the air is dry, a person's airways are less likely to be
sufficiently lubricated, which can make snoring worse.
Adding humidity to the air by running a humidifier at night
may help to relieve some symptoms.
4.
Keeping the skin and hair moist
Some people notice that their skin, lips, and hair become
dry and fragile in the winter.
Many types of heating units pump hot, dry air through the
house or office, which can make the skin dry, itchy, or flaky. Cold air outside
can also dry out the skin.
Using a humidifier to add moisture to the indoor air may
help to reduce the occurrence of dry, cracked skin.
5. Reducing allergy and asthma symptoms
People with dry sinuses or airways who are prone to
allergic reactions may find that a humidifier relieves their issues.
Authors of a study in the International Archives of Occupational and
Environmental Health found that teachers exposed to too high or too low
levels of humidity in their classrooms had an increased risk of asthma-like
symptoms. This increased risk was small, however.
6.
Benefits for the home
Moisture from a humidifier can be helpful around the home.
Any moisture loving houseplants may become more vibrant, and wood floors or
furniture may last longer. Humidity can also help to prevent wallpaper from
cracking and static electricity from building up.
Humid air can also feel warmer than dry air, which could
help a person to save money on utility bills in winter months.
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