With the hay fever season right around the corner and the unusually high temperatures everywhere, we know those with asthmatics have been suffering. That explains why more people have asked us: are humidifiers good for asthmatics?
We don’t blame you for being too cautious. As you already know, asthma triggers include sinus infections, allergies, pollens, chemical pollutants, and mold. Some of these can worsen in a high-humidity environment, others the opposite.
So, we decided to put this article together to answer a few questions others have asked us. Meanwhile, we also want to help you find a humidifier that works.
Can a Humidifier Make You Cough?
A common concern with using a humidifier is it might trigger coughing. Fortunately, that is a misunderstanding. If you ever felt a humidifier triggered your cough, usually, it was not because of the device but one of the following reasons:
- You weren’t aware of how high the humidity already was
- Your indoor air quality was originally unsatisfactory
- You overused your humidifier beyond the recommended frequency
Like many other things in this world, humidity only becomes harmful when misused or overused. Therefore, if you find yourself coughing with a humidifier around, you should be looking more closely to your environment.
Ask yourself: when did you last do a deep cleaning? Were you running your humidifier all day run? Usually, your humidifier didn’t make you cough. Instead, it amplified the harmful elements around you that weren’t showing themselves.
Can Humidifers Increase Oxygen Levels?
Yes. Humidifiers can increase oxygen levels in your room and therefore may ease those with breathing difficulties, such as asthmatics or pneumonia patients. The increased oxygen level can also reducce headache, improve sleep quality, and overall, make you feel more energetic.
Should I Use a Humidifier With Asthma?
Humidifiers can help with asthma by relieving symptoms or reducing risks of episodes. Tha'ts because increased humidity can make breathing easier. It would also help with dry, scratchy throats to reduce coughing.
Sleeping with a humidifier may ease asthma or reduce risks of an episode because increased humidity can ease breathing, as long as they're set to low. However, understand that too high of a humidity might trigger or worsen asthma symptoms.
Should I Get a Warm Mist or Cold Mist Humidifier?
Generally, both hot and cold mist humidifiers can ease coughing and other issues that may trigger asthma. But one may be more suitable than the other.
Warm Mist Humidifiers
A warm mist is more efficient in killing bacteria. It is also more suitable for those with chronic headaches or migraines. However, they consume more energy and can be a safety hazard to children and animals. It also wouldn’t be realistic running a warm humidifier during summertime.
Cool Mist Humidifiers
Cool mist models are great for year-round uses. When it’s hot, they also work as mini ACs. And when it’s cold while you have heaters blasting indoors, having a cool mist humidifier would reduce dryness caused by the heating.
Meanwhile, cool humidifiers are also more energy-efficient. However, the cold water makes it easy for bacteria to grow.
Read More: How Far Should a Humidifier be From Your Bed
Humidifier vs. Dehumidifier
Alas, here comes the haunting question: which one is better for asthmatics? Humidifiers or dehumidifiers?
You see, asthma management is all about having the appropriate humidity. Therefore, whether you need a humidifier or a dehumidifier depends on the season, the environment, and your conditions.
Humidifiers reduce dry cough, shortness of breath, and symptoms that may trigger an asthma episode. Meanwhile, dehumidifiers reduce mold and bacteria growth in an overly humid environment.
Therefore, you’d want a dehumidifier around during the rainy season but a humidifier for dry days. In the end, it comes down to what you need.
Read More: Humidifier vs. Air Purifier
Best Humidifiers For Asthma and Allergies
Finally! We know you’ve been waiting for our product recommendation. Before you continue, here are the things you should pay attention to when purchasing a humidifier:
- Capacity: is it enough for your space?
- Mist: Does this humidifier use hot or cold mist?
- Essential oil: Does this humidifier come with an essential oil diffuser? For some, the scent might be a trigger and should thus avoid those models.
- Brand: you’re buying something for your health, so go with someone trustworthy.
- Noise level: Choose quieter models, especially if you need to run your humidifier overnight.
- Additional functions: It’s always good to have bonuses like timed operation, presets, and wireless controls.
Shop Miko Humidifier for Asthmatics: MYST
Are Humidifiers Good For Asthmatics?
All in all, humidifiers are good for asthmatics. They help relieve symptoms and may prevent future episodes. However, be careful not to overrun your humidifier. Also, check for mold and indoor air quality regularly, so the high moisture doesn’t lead to other issues. Finally, we recommend using purified water over tap water in your humidifier for safer, healthier results.
