A member asked:

I am dependant on humidifier to be able in winter to be able to breath when air is dry due heating indoors, asking for causes and alternative solution?

6 doctors weighed in across 2 answers

Typical effect: The average human needs humidified air (35-45%) to prevent the effect to dry heat on the nasal membranes. This drying is caused by the extraction of moisture to humidify the air before it reaches the deep lung tissues for oxygen exchange which is typically at 100% during the process. The dryer the environment the worse the nose suffers. Nasal saline gel sometimes helps too.

Answered 3/5/2016

5.4k views

Thank
Dr. Darrell Herrington answered

Specializes in Family Medicine

No alternatives: The dryness is causing irritation to your airways, which then causes swelling and/or constriction and mucus production, which will impair oxygen and co2 exchange. And if you move to a constantly humid climate, you may have even more problems with mold spores. Consult your doctor to assure that you are doing everything possible to maintain lung function.

Answered 3/5/2016

5.4k views

Thank

Related Questions