While not everyone has the same sensitivity to wildfire smoke, its still a good idea to avoid breathing smoke if you can help it. Wood with a higher moisture content is known as "green wood," and is not ideal for fire building. Use newspaper and small pieces of dry wood to start fires. The answer is yes and no. Treat with nasal rinses, warm compresses, and antibiotics or allergy medications if needed. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. This article will help you understand what solutions may work for your type of headache. If the mucus dries inside your sinuses, it can also crust and block your sinus cavity, causing inflammation leading to nasal irritation or even a sinus infection. If you know someone in this situation, consider checking on them and seeing what you might be able to do to help. Don't use your fireplace, and avoid gatherings that include fires. Sinus pressure and congestion go hand in hand as congestion is caused by the nasal cavities in your head getting backed up. Some roomair cleanerscan help reduce particle levels indoors, as long as they are the right type and size for your rooms as specified by the manufacturer. There is a lot of condensation at the window. . Old unflued gas heaters within the home may not meet current emission standards. Running a standard-sized gas fireplace will cost about $0.22/hour at 100% heating output if you use natural gas. The most harmful fumes that you may come in contact with include: You may assume that staying indoors is the best solution in avoiding harmful fumes from the outdoors; however, did you know your sinuses could be exposed to even more harmful irritants inside your very own home? If you receive conflicting scheduling information please contact us at 610-415-1100. It is inexpensive to run a gas fireplace. When the paranasal sinuses fail to equalize to barometric changes during vertical travel, damage to the sinus can cause sharp facial pain with postnasal drip or a nosebleed after surfacing. Exposure to particle pollution is even linked to premature death. More than 37 million Americans suffer from sinus problems each year. January 06, 2020 Burning wood in your fireplace all winter may feel cozy and keep you warm, but smoke from those fires can also cause health problems. Bathe your pets weekly. Anxiety can also sometimes cause physical symptoms in addition to emotional distress. They can cause a range of health problems, from burning eyes and a runny nose to aggravated chronic heart and lung diseases. Note: If you don't have an air conditioner, staying inside with the windows closed may be dangerous in extremely hot weather. Make sure the thermostat is on and that the current room . So while gas fireplaces may not be the cause of your sinus problems, they could actually help to relieve them! Dust your house once a week to avoid the collection of bacteria and dust mites. Scarves or bandanas (wet or dry) wont help, either. It stopped working entirely; the remote has new batteries. If you leave your fireplace on for more than three hours at a time, you are putting yourself at risk. The answer is yes and no. FULLY VACCINATED individuals may schedule an appointment here. The answer to "Can you burn wood in a gas fireplace?" is a resounding NO! My PC keeps telling me it is allergies. CO alarms can be a useful back-up precaution, but should not be considered a substitute for the proper installation and maintenance of gas heating appliances. Drink plenty of water. This explains why a dry house can cause sinus problems. The following people are at increased risk from air pollutants, including carbon monoxide: Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include: Long-term exposure to low levels of carbon monoxide can also lead to impaired thinking and concentration, emotional changeability, irritability and impulsiveness. Keep the filter clean to prevent bringing additional smoke inside. Now I will delve deeper into how it all happens and what you can do it help prevent it from happening. Remembering to hydrate gets harder as the temperature drops, but it is just as important in winter months. Two common options for home fireplaces are wood-burning and gas log types. Let me get right to the point: unvented gas (and kerosene) space heaters and fireplaces are a bad idea.Don't install one. Testing for allergens will allow you and your doctor to create an allergy management program to avoid exposure and effects of allergens. The following information will help keep your sinuses healthy! Under these laws, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) evaluates the risks of new and existing chemicals and works to prevent or reduce pollution beforeit gets into the environment.Decreasing environmental pollution is now considered a key element in reducing health problems in the United States. If you have a gas fireplace, you may be wondering if they are safe. Dust miles, pollen and pet dander are purified from the air with this device. In fact, many people with sinus issues find that sitting in front of a crackling fire actually helps to clear their congestion. Bananas are rich in carbohydrates but when having sinus problems, it is better to avoid this fruit; it can exacerbate the symptoms of sinusitis because it can cause inflammation. To ensure proper venting, however, a liner must first be installed in the chimney. Step 1: Mix together a cup of tepid, distilled water and a teaspoon of salt. Teeny holes that connect your nasal passages to your sinuses (basically a collection of hollow, moist cavities that lurk beneath your nose, eyes, and cheeks) get blocked. The Standing Pilot Went Out Sometimes, a strong draft will blow out the pilot, and you have to relight it. Is it OK to leave fireplace on overnight? For many, these measures may need to be combined with nasal steroid sprays, saline rinses, antihistamines, decongestants or allergy shots. Radon gas is produced during the decay of elements such as uranium and radium. If you are experiencing symptoms of sinusitis such as headache, postnasal drip or a discolored nasal discharge, congestion, coughing, fever and fatigue for longer than 10 days, schedule an appointment today! So even a small amount can impact your body's ability to carry oxygen to the cells. As the temperature drops outside, heaters and furnaces are getting cranked up inside. This can affect the lungs and the heart as well. Never use an unflued gas heater in a bathroom, bedroom or caravan. We take most insurance plans. Humidifiers are the most effective during during the winter months. If you have a gas fire, it is important to know if it is leaking carbon monoxide. In addition to the fireplace smoke that can be released inside the home,researchhas shown that up to 70% of smoke released via the chimney re-enters your home. Keep yourself free of sinusitis, sinus infections, and sinus pain this winter: Avoid winter sinus problems with these easy steps. This gas is expelled through the mouth (burping) or anus (flatulence). A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Because there is no airflow to the outdoors, they do not create the negative pressure problems that can occur with a vented fireplace. Despite the fact that gas fireplaces are far safer than wood fireplaces, owners should still take precautions. How to Vent a Gas Fireplace Without a Chimney? Its not possible to have a fireplace that causes allergies. They are also more likely to occur if you have a history of heart disease. With the latter, material that looks like real wood logs sits inside the fireplace. #2 A headache that feels like a band is squeezing your entire head. Dont overload your fireplace with too much wood. First off, take a quick peek at your thermostat. Carbon monoxide is colourless and odourless. Why does my fireplace give me a headache? 1. Bananas. Dr. Bennett recommends stationing a humidifier in your bedroom if the air is too dry. If you smell something like sulfur or rotten eggs, this could be a sign of a carbon monoxide leak. Among these particles are fine particles, which are smaller than 2.5 micrometers in diameter, and these fine particles can affect your lungs. Do It Yourself: Is a Natural Gas Fireplace Worth the Expense, Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America: Holiday Allergies. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. Its important to limit your exposure to smoke, says Dr. Cain. If you are active outdoors, pay attention to symptoms. Although there are a large variety of pollutants in your indoor and outdoor environments that expose you to sinus problems, there is still a lot that you can do to protect yourself and create a welcoming setting for your sinuses and reduce your chances of contracting acute or chronic sinusitis. There is a manual gas shutoff valve inside the service department. One way you can reduce your health risks with burning wood in your home is to use newer fireplace inserts. Make sure that your chimney is in good condition and is able to ventilate the gases properly. Be sure to also visit a local general nutrition store and find a multivitamin thats right for you in addition to a zinc or iron pill if you are a woman. Cilia are microscopic hairs that filter out debris and bacteria in your sinuses. Never use or store solvents, aerosols or pressure pack cans near a gas heater even if the heater is turned off, the pilot light may still be on. Gas heaters need to be professionally installed and serviced by a trained and qualified gasfitter. Pain and pressure can be caused by this. The size . See also What Is The Most Disease Resistant Grass? Flame is Too Low or High. Related: 7 Best Electric Fireplaces Under $300. Its especially important for you to pay attention to local air quality reports during a fire if you are. Carbon monoxide gas can be odorless and go undetected until a person dies from carbon monoxide poisoning, which is the biggest reason. An increase in the frequency of sinus infections, membrane damage to your nasal and sinus cavities, and a weakening of your immune system are common results of indoor pollution. Gas fireplaces are safe when used correctly, but can be dangerous if not used properly. Wood fires release tiny particles that get into the lungs and can harm people with underlying health conditions. While wood fires are beautiful and cozy, theyre also pretty toxic. These appliances do not use venting mechanisms such as flues, chimneys or ducts to remove the exhaust fumes from indoors. Installation of carbon monoxide detectors and sitting away from the fireplace are ways to reduce the risk. You simply turn on a switch, which causes the flames to appear. Sinus sensitivity and. Nasal polyps - non-cancerous growths on the lining of the nose and sinuses that can cause mucus to become blocked. Javier Delgado, MSc, and colleagues report the finding in Chest. #3 A headache that comes with congestion or runny nose. Will a carbon monoxide detector detect a gas leak? Broker, MD named to Main Line Today Magazines Top Docs for 2017. 8. This same bacteria can affect more than just the sinuses, but the whole body and cause the common cold along with all of its symptoms. Another reason your gas fireplace won't stay lit could be the thermocouple. Wood fireplaces are not as safe as gas fireplaces. Nasal congestion is most likely to occur with upper respiratory conditions. When it comes to safety, its a good idea to open your windows when you use the fireplace. Viruses and bacteria will not be flushed away unless the sinuses have enough moisture. According to the CDC, up to 500 people die annually from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning. The main agent that causes headaches is carbon monoxide. You will save money on gas utility bills if you use a ventless fireplace. Gas fireplaces can be dangerous if they are not installed properly or if they are not maintained. Do gas fireplaces create carbon monoxide? Nasal irrigation is an easy way to help prevent and treat sinus problems, according to . Small particles less than 10 micrometers in diameter pose the greatest health problems because they can get deep into the lungs, says Dr. Cain. Burn dry wood that has been split, covered and stored for at least six months. Cold, dry air can be created by a temperature drop in the winter. Gas logs can be a good alternative for allergy sufferers. First, be sure that the area around the fireplace is well-ventilated. A bubble of air trapped within the body expands as air pressure in a plane is reduced. Be sure to clean while wearing a mask over your mouth and nose, which can be purchased at any home goods store. It is the cold air outside that pulls the moisture from the inside air. However, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that gas fireplaces cause sinus problems. This includes all central heating units, space heaters, wall units and gas log fires. Professional servicing, including inspection of the flue or chimney, is recommended. Carbon monoxide can be produced by gas appliances. Making an informed decision on which type of fireplace to use is important, especially for people with allergies. Gas fireplaces are one of the most common sources of exposure, even though there are many other possibilities. Consider using a HEPA filter in your heating systembut make sure you remember to clean the filter regularly. A ventless fireplace runs on natural gas, including butane or propane, and does not produce the harmful emissions that require a wood-burning fireplace to have a suitable ventilation system. #1 A headache that starts in the temples, and slowly proceeds to the center of your head. Many people enjoy the warmth and ambiance that a fireplace provides during chilly days and nights. This indicates that there is a problem with the gas mixture and that dangerous gases may be present. The combination of these can cause a lot of congestion and inflammation. Carbon monoxide poisoning can be caused by gas fireplace leaks, but can also be caused by explosions that can level a block. Discuss when to leave the area, how much medicine to have on hand, and your asthma action plan if you have asthma. Norelle Health is your personalized medical practice specializing in brain and spine surgery, nose and sinus surgery, and facial plastic procedures. eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Electric fireplaces are a sure bet for those with health problems because no fire, smoke, venting, or chimney is necessary. If you choose to buy an air cleaner, dont wait until theres a fire - make that decision beforehand. Open windows to air out the house when air quality improves. However, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind in order to prevent any accidents. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. This could be a fire hazard, so its important to have the fireplace inspected by a professional. Although the image of a log fire is often associated with the holidays, romance and cozy nights inside protected from the cold are a threat to lung and heart health. It may be frightening to imagine breathing in these dangerous materials, since they can contribute to colds during the winter months and the flaring up of allergies in the spring and summer. If your fireplace has a standing pilot and is controlled by a thermostat, try turning the thermostat all the way up to see if the burner starts. That is, if your setup is a true. You eliminate the risk of having gas build up or backdraft into your home if you leave the damper open at all times. That takes you in the opposite direction, though. The average price of natural gas in the US in 2020 was about $1 per therm. Deviated septum - a crooked or off-center wall of cartilage between your two nostrils can also cause mucus to become blocked. If you do find a gas heating specialist online, make sure that they are a licensed gasfitter endorsed for gas appliance servicing. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. For this, Dr. Bennett recommends installing a HEPA (High-Efficiency Air Particulate) filter in both your bedroom and your office space. Have your gas heater serviced at least every 2 years by a qualified gasfitter, to help keep your family safe. Here are some things to look for: Fames should be blue: A gas fireplace that produces mostly yellow or orange flames may be burning inefficiently and could be a safety hazard. The most common indoor sinus irritants include: Air containing these elements can be harmful to your sinuses, especially if the air itself is dry. Fine particles can enter the lungs and bloodstream if they are in the air. Check your Thermostat Setting. Our website is full of reviews and information from reliable sources to help you choose the best equipment. Gas supply problems. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. If you have heart or lung disease, smoke may make your symptoms worse. And it's probably not a good time for children - especially children with asthma - to be vigorously active outdoors, or active outdoors for prolonged periods of time. Always extinguish the flame before leaving the room or going to bed. A cabinet heater is an indoor gas heater that is fuelled by an LPG gas bottle, which is housed inside the heater itself. Gas fireplaces, gas stoves and inserts all use sealed combustion technology, which means all combustion air comes from the outside. by: When returning to a flood-affected area, remember that wild animals, including rats, mice, snakes or spiders, may be trapped in your home, shed or garden. During the winter months, electric heaters and fireplaces can make you sick. A barometric shift can cause your nose to swell. Consider replacing open-flued gas heaters with room-sealed gas heaters or split systems at the next opportunity. Never leave a gas fireplace unattended. When exposed to high levels of radon over extended periods of time, you are more likely to develop lung cancer. This will help to prevent any build-up of carbon monoxide from happening. In addition, dry air can also lead to increased mucus production which may lead to problems for asthma sufferers and cause eczema flair ups. This can cause dangerous chimney fires. It doesn't have anything to do with your nasal . Ensuring that the air in your home has the appropriately humidification is important to reduce your risk of sinus problems. If you take these precautions, then you should be able to enjoy your gas fireplace without worry. But a wood-burning fire in your fireplace can cause health problems, especially if you or a family member has a history of lung disease. If there is a problem with the homes inhabitants are at risk. When the cord is plugged straight into the wall, without the adapter, the fireplace can be turned on manually with the switch on the unit itself. Electric units dont work with gas fireplaces because they have real flames. Have your fireplace and chimney inspected and cleaned every year by a certified professional to make sure there are no gaps, cracks or unwanted drafts and to remove any dangerous creosote buildup. Installation of carbon monoxide detectors and sitting away from the fireplace are ways to reduce the risk. This could be a serious safety hazard. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. For example, buy a hypoallergenic mattress cover and pillowcases and wash them with your bed sheets and shams in hot water, on a weekly basis. This can especially be the case with vent-free gas logs. 5. It can be hard to tell when there is a carbon monoxide leak. This can especially be the case with vent-free gas logs. If you suffer from sinus problems, you may be wondering if gas fireplaces could be the culprit. Wood fireplaces can provide a pleasing aroma and other pleasing characteristics for your home, but they can pose significant safety risks. Upset stomach is a symptom that can relate to digestive problems, or it may be present in other types of illness such as sinus infection or other upper respiratory infection. Can my fireplace make me sick? Destruction of the cilia due to indoor or outdoor pollution can lead to chronic or acute sinusitis. This is possible with vent-free gas logs. Long-term exposure to high levels of NO2 can lead to chronic bronchitis. Keep your windows and doors closed - unless it's extremely hot outside. Smoke is made up of a complex mixture of gases and fine particles produced when wood and other organic materials burn. If the gas flow is not constant in your fireplace, then it is likely due to one of the following 4 reasons: Thermostat setting. Other wood smoke pollutants If you have a gas fireplace, you may be wondering if they are safe. This is an indication that combustion isnt taking place properly and that harmful gases could be present. Exposure to wood. A gas log fireplace must be properly vented to the outside so that toxic fumes are heading outside rather than staying in your home. Brian J. Gas fireplaces are safe when used correctly, but can be dangerous if not used properly. Please click here to see any active alerts. Get your heating ducts cleaned, and make sure to be away from home for several hours after the cleaning. There is a sealed combustion behind the glass that makes a gas fireplace safe. Fireplace maintenance. Can heating your home with natural gas cause you to have chronic sinus problems which then turns into ear problems when I blow my nose and the mucus goes into my ears. Have a supply of N-95 or P-100 masks on hand, andlearn how to use them correctly. How Many Gallons Of 32 Nitrogen Are In A Ton? A faulty gas heater can cause serious health problems. Strange smells: If you smell something strange coming from your gas fireplace, it could be a sign of a gas leak. Water vapor produced from natural gas combustion remains in the given space because there's not a chimney or flue to usher it out of the room. A 20,000 BTU gas fireplace will use less than 20 bcm of natural gas per hour. The smell of burning gas can cause sensitivity, headaches, and other issues in some people. The smell of the logs isnt as strong because they dont have a chimney or vent to remove fumes from the fire. The answer is yes and no. Consider using a HEPA filter in your heating systembut make sure you remember to clean the filter regularly. This could be a sign of a serious problem with the unit and you should call a professional to have it inspected. The Mayo Clinic says that wood-burning fireplaces can trigger allergy symptoms. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Home gas fireplaces can be dangerous if they are not properly installed or maintained. 6. Most people think of their gas fireplace as being a safe and reliable way to heat their home. The gas is comprised of radioactive particles that, when breathed in, damage the cells lining your lungs. Carbon monoxide poisoning wont be stopped if a window is opened. The problem seems to be with the power adapter that the fireplace cord plugs into, which then plugs into the wall outlet. Clean your heater (when the heater is off and cool) to reduce dust build-up by vacuuming out any duct registers and cold air return vents (the register is the central heating duct opening in each room, which can be seen when the cover grill is lifted). 6. If you've tested the thermopile and it's fine, with a reading of . For more information about how HEPA filters prevent sinus problems, whether a HEPA filter is right for you, and a Buyers Guide on selecting the best HEPA without breaking the bank, read the Spotlight On: HEPA Air Filters article under the Sinus Health page. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. If you do go this route, make sure theyre fully vented outdoors to keep pollutants out. Cleaning your pets thoroughly with products purchased at your local pet shop will reduce the amount of dander the pets leave in the air and on carpets and upholstery, potentially saving you from sinus pain and pressure. Chest Pain: 3 Signs Its Not a Heart Attack and Possible Causes. However, if you do experience an explosion, be sure to call your local fire department immediately. Step 4 - Get Gas. The answer is that a gas fireplace makes the air dry and moist. Can a ventless gas fireplace make you sick? Replace any unflued heaters that are more than 10 years old, or if you feel that your health is being affected by them. Cause Dry or Itchy Skin The mold and mildew circulated throughout the air by dirty air ducts can worsen or lead to skin issues such as eczema, rashes, and hives. We have recognized a glitch in our appointment software. Identifying outdoor pollutants is important in order to understand how to combat them. All Rights Reserved.
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